"Rat Of The City" by Sidney Gish is a song that tackles the theme of individuality and feeling disconnected from the societal expectations placed on oneself. The song expresses a sense of not fitting into the mold and being different from the people around. The opening lines suggest a willingness to embrace solipsism, a philosophical belief that only one's own mind is sure to exist. The reference to "The Matrix" alludes to the idea of being plugged into a simulated reality, where the speaker would be content to exist. It reflects a desire to escape the pressures and responsibilities of the real world. The lyrics continue to express a detachment from societal norms and a sense of not belonging. The line about taste indicates that the speaker's preferences differ from those around them, highlighting their individuality. Despite standing in the same places as others, they feel disconnected and unfulfilled. The chorus emphasizes the speaker's efforts to distance themselves from societal expectations. The line "I don't owe anything" suggests a liberation from the pressure to conform, leading to a sense of lazy contentment. They proclaim their independence from societal roles and redefine themselves as an NPC (non-player character), a term often used in video games to describe characters controlled by computer algorithms. The reference to being a "rat of the city" reflects a feeling of being small and insignificant in the vast urban landscape. The speaker sees themselves as different, incapable of conforming to the expectations of the city and its people. They feel like they don't know who they are, but they don't want to be like everyone else. The song's overall message seems to celebrate the uniqueness and non-conformity of the speaker. It conveys a desire to break free from societal pressures and embrace one's individuality, even if it means feeling disconnected or unsure of oneself. The lyrics leave room for interpretation, inviting listeners to reflect on their own identities and the pressures they face.
