Burna Boy's song "Monsters You Made" delves into themes of oppression, injustice, and societal struggle, with a particular focus on the experiences of the African people. Through his poignant lyrics, Burna Boy addresses the historical and ongoing effects of colonization, marginalization, and economic exploitation.
The song commences with powerful statements highlighting the failure of governments to meet the needs of their people, resulting in youth frustration and a prevailing sense of being misunderstood. Burna Boy defiantly rejects the label of a monster, instead emphasizing the root causes behind societal unrest and rebellion.
In the verses, Burna Boy vividly portrays the harsh realities faced by individuals residing in oppressed communities. He paints a grim picture of existence, where even the act of smiling serves as an act of defiance in the face of immense pain and suffering. The imagery of bodies discovered in lakes and the sky fading to grey evokes a profound sense of despair and hopelessness.
Furthermore, the lyrics offer a critique of the Eurocentric education system enforced upon African nations, symbolized by references to European explorers and historical figures. Burna Boy challenges the notion of African inferiority perpetuated by colonial education, advocating for the rejection of false narratives and the reclamation of African identity.
Throughout the song, there is a resounding call for change and empowerment, with Burna Boy urging listeners to empathize with the struggles of their fellow human beings. The chorus serves as a poignant reminder that the "monsters" spawned by society are a direct consequence of oppression and injustice, thereby placing responsibility on those in positions of power.
In the closing moments of the song, Burna Boy confronts the enduring legacy of colonization and the ongoing exploitation of African resources. He provocatively questions whether the cycle of exploitation will ever cease and unequivocally declares that the fight for justice is far from over, challenging listeners to introspect on their role in either perpetuating or dismantling systems of oppression.
In conclusion, Burna Boy's "Monsters You Made" stands as a powerful anthem shedding light on the struggles encountered by marginalized communities. It calls for collective action to forge a more equitable and just world.
