Anohni's composition, "4 Degrees," stands as a remarkable and poignant commentary on climate change, transcending the conventional boundaries of music to address the catastrophic impact of human activities on the planet. The recurring phrase, "It's only four degrees," echoes like a haunting mantra throughout the song, serving as a stark reminder of the urgency and gravity of the environmental crisis humanity faces.
Delving into the lyrics reveals an unsettling desire articulated by the singer—a wish to witness the world in a state of turmoil and an apparent indifference to the suffering of living beings. Lines such as "I wanna see fish go belly-up in the sea" and "I wanna hear the dogs crying for water" paint a disturbing tableau of the repercussions of climate change. Anohni utilizes vivid and evocative imagery to convey the severity of the situation, opting to explore the consequences of a global rise in temperature.
The inclusion of references to lemurs, tiny creatures, rhinos, and big mammals in the lyrics directs attention to the indiscriminate impact of climate change on various species. The desire to witness them burn is metaphorical, representing the artist's portrayal of the devastating consequences of environmental degradation. Anohni's deliberate use of powerful imagery aims to elicit a visceral response, urging listeners to confront the harsh reality of the ecological crisis.
The repetitive refrain, "I wanna burn them," serves as a stark reminder of humanity's complicity in the impending environmental catastrophe. Anohni's intentional choice of words conveys a sense of culpability and a willingness to acknowledge the destructive actions that contribute to the deterioration of the planet. The expressed desire to burn the sky and witness animals dying in the trees underscores the irreversible damage inflicted on Earth's ecosystems.
As the song progresses, the urgency in Anohni's vocals intensifies, mirroring the escalating climate crisis. The repetitive refrain of "Oh, let's go, let's go, it's only four degrees" carries an unsettling tone, challenging the listener to confront the apathy and complacency surrounding environmental issues. The urgency in the artist's voice serves as a call to action, imploring individuals to recognize the severity of the situation and take meaningful steps towards environmental conservation.
In conclusion, Anohni's "4 Degrees" emerges as a powerful and evocative musical composition, offering a poignant commentary on the climate crisis. The lyrics, propelled by vivid imagery and an urgent vocal delivery, compel listeners to confront the consequences of human actions on the planet. The song stands as a stark reminder of the collective responsibility to address climate change and work towards a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the Earth.
