Kae Tempest – Statue In The Square Lyrics
Well, either I’m nice on the eye
Or this person that’s passing me by has never seen one
Like me before, we endure it
Keep reaching for it, knee deep, we keep pouring
Life force in a formless void, we’re too gorgeous
Dwarf the whole street when we walk, are you transported?
I cherish the ones who support us
Fear takes from us but love restores us
You are not the sum of the things you do wrong
In the eyes of someone who does not understand you
It’s not a disorder or a dysfunction
Disgusting the way they discuss us
But just ’cause a person’s not decent to me
Don’t mean they’re not decent to someone
The norm is not normal: it’s a construction
Designed to stifle the inner life and increase production[Chorus]
They never wanted people like me round here
But when I’m dead, they’ll put my statue in the square
They used to tell their children not to stare
But when I’m dead, they’ll put my statue in the square
Yeah, they’re ten a penny, we’re rare
And when we’re dead, they’ll put our statues in the square
They can shake their heads in despair
But we been here from the start and we ain’t going nowhere
Spent my life trying to do things your way, normal didn’t feel right
Trapped in a shrinking hallway till it got too tight
Deep breath, fresh air when I broke the surface
Yes, we’ve all lost lovers, what’s sad is a lost purpose
Reclaim it, reframe it, rename it, something more fitting
Contain it, champagne it, complaining never did nothing
But hitting the ground running’s a start; hold your position
Tape it up, tuck it, and love it beyond condition
Watching the city surrender to rain, I remember to live is to change
I don’t pray for the end of my pain, I pray for the strength to weather it
Paused on the brink of a gaping precipice, hesitant, derelict, slow from the sedative
Terrified people never stop asking where the treasure is, I’m like: everything’s relative
So don’t be surprised when they shield their eyes
What they fear’s a reflection of their own minds
They reveal themselves in their dead headlines
It’s fine, we don’t need permission to shine[Chorus]
They never wanted people like me round here
But when I’m dead, they’ll put my statue in the square
They used to tell their children not to stare
But when I’m dead, they’ll put my statue in the square
Yeah, they’re ten a penny, we’re rare
And when we’re dead, they’ll put our statues in the square
They can shake their heads in despair
But we been here from the start and we ain’t going nowhere
Statue In The Square by Kae Tempest
“Statue In The Square” is a poignant song by Kae Tempest, featured on their album released in 2021. The track delves into the complexities of identity and societal acceptance, resonating deeply with listeners who feel marginalized or misunderstood.
Quick summary
The song addresses the struggles of feeling like an outsider in a judgmental society, emphasizing resilience, self-worth, and the irony of posthumous recognition for those who challenge societal norms.
In-depth lyrics analysis
The song opens with vivid imagery that sets the tone for the exploration of identity and societal rejection. Kae Tempest uses the metaphor of a statue to represent how society often overlooks individuals during their lives, only to celebrate them after they have passed. This theme is particularly poignant as it highlights the irony of posthumous recognition, suggesting that those who challenge the status quo are often marginalized in life but revered in death.
As the verses unfold, Tempest delves into the emotional landscape of feeling like an outsider. The lyrics convey a sense of struggle against societal norms that seek to suppress individuality. The artist reflects on the pain of being misunderstood and the longing for acceptance, which resonates with many who have faced similar experiences. The repeated chorus serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to navigate a world that often feels hostile.
The song also emphasizes the importance of love and support from others, suggesting that these connections can provide strength in the face of adversity. Tempest’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their identities and reject the labels that society imposes, which often diminish one’s value. This message of self-acceptance and empowerment is a central theme throughout the song.
In the latter part of the song, the mood shifts to one of defiance and reflection. Tempest acknowledges the struggle but also celebrates the beauty of individuality and the strength found in embracing one’s true self. The imagery of a statue in the square becomes a symbol of enduring presence, representing those who challenge societal expectations and the legacy they leave behind.
Overall, “Statue In The Square” is a powerful anthem that captures the journey of reclaiming one’s purpose and identity. It speaks to the universal experience of feeling marginalized while also celebrating the resilience and strength found in self-acceptance. The song’s message is both timely and timeless, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider in their own life.
Cultural and historical context
Released in 2021, “Statue In The Square” reflects a growing cultural awareness around issues of identity, acceptance, and the recognition of marginalized voices. In a time when social movements advocating for equality and representation are at the forefront, Kae Tempest’s work resonates with the ongoing conversations about societal norms and the importance of embracing individuality. The song’s themes are particularly relevant in today’s context, where discussions about mental health, self-acceptance, and the impact of societal judgment are increasingly prominent.
Frequently asked questions
The main theme revolves around the struggle for identity and acceptance in a society that often marginalizes individuals, highlighting resilience and the irony of posthumous recognition.
The statue symbolizes the recognition and honor given to individuals after their death, often those who were marginalized during their lives, reflecting societal irony.
Through powerful lyrics that emphasize the importance of love, support, and rejecting societal labels, Tempest encourages listeners to embrace their true identities.
The song expresses a mix of defiance, reflection, pain, and empowerment, capturing the complex emotions associated with feeling like an outsider.
The song’s themes of identity, acceptance, and societal judgment resonate with contemporary discussions about equality, mental health, and the importance of embracing individuality.
