Genesis Owusu's song "Tremendous: The Devil's Soliloquy" is a thought-provoking and introspective piece that delves into themes of self-awareness, societal control, and the search for truth. The lyrics suggest that true knowledge comes from recognizing our own limitations and embracing the idea that we may not know everything. The line "The man who knows something, knows he knows nothing at all" emphasizes the importance of humility and open-mindedness in seeking understanding. The song also explores the concept of an "emergency" being a personal responsibility rather than relying on outside help, symbolized by the absence of a 9-1-1 emergency number when one's "tower," or personal foundation, falls. This highlights the need for self-reliance and self-accountability in navigating life's challenges. Owusu alludes to the illusions and deceptions present in society, likening them to a "ghostly industry" that can be more frightening than any traditional ghost. He suggests that it is often easier for people to believe in fiction or falsehoods rather than facing uncomfortable truths. The repetition of the line "truth is but a word" implies that truth can be subjective and manipulated to fit certain narratives. The lyrics also touch on the power dynamics at play in society, with the winners or those in authority writing the rules. The song questions why people may accept their own losses and conform to societal norms rather than challenging and seeking to change them. Owusu suggests that the mass consumption of entertainment and media has led to a loss of individuality and critical thinking. The use of the phrase "drop the book and even faster to pick up the remote" implies a preference for mindless entertainment over intellectual engagement. This passive acceptance of information can lead to a disregard for questioning and introspection. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration with a world that discourages questioning and individual thinking. The repetition of the line "Questioning has become outlawed" suggests a stifling of dissenting voices and a culture that values conformity over curiosity. Ignorance is portrayed as potentially blissful but ultimately detrimental to personal growth and understanding. The reference to a zombie outbreak being a constant party hints at a metaphorical representation of society as a collective of mindless individuals following societal norms without question. Owusu questions which side people will choose in the ongoing tug of war between conformity and integrity. In summary, "Tremendous: The Devil's Soliloquy" by Genesis Owusu explores themes of self-awareness, societal control, and the search for truth. The lyrics critique the passive acceptance of information, the manipulation of truth, and the suppression of questioning, urging listeners to embrace self-awareness, critical thinking, and individuality.
