The song "Agent Orange" by Heaven Shall Burn tackles the issue of the devastating effects of the chemical defoliant known as Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War. The lyrics describe the operation called "Ranch Hand," where the death-causing substance was sprayed on farms, leading to the assault and suppression of the population through military means. The song highlights the injustice of the situation, as the war is being legalized and those affected by Agent Orange are deprived of their rights and power. The chorus repeats the phrase "Agent Orange, a fire that doesn't burn," emphasizing the insidious and long-lasting nature of the chemical's effects. The marks and scars may have disappeared, but the cancerous impact on the innocent souls and physical deformities persist. The song questions the effectiveness of medicine in helping the victims and laments the rise in stillbirths caused by exposure to Agent Orange. The lyrics also touch on the intergenerational transmission of the effects, with newborns being born with deformities and suffering the consequences. The vicious circle of transmission is highlighted, and the song suggests that there is no way for reparations for the victims, leaving them to live with the consequences of the chemical agent. Ultimately, "Agent Orange" serves as a plea for help and awareness of the ongoing suffering caused by the use of this deadly chemical during the Vietnam War.
