Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: industrial
Song Meaning of “Assimilate – Warsaw Version” by Skinny Puppy
The song ‘Assimilate – Warsaw Version’ by Skinny Puppy is a commentary on the ways in which society forces conformity and suppresses individual identity. Throughout the song, the artist questions how much one must give up in order to be accepted into society’s rigid standards.
The lyrics paint a bleak picture of the oppressive nature of society’s narrowmindedness and demand for uniformity. The opening verse asks “How little can I be and still survive?/How much of me must assimilate?”, expressing the struggle between personal autonomy and acceptance. The singer questions how much of their own individual self they have to sacrifice in order to fit into society’s expectations.
The chorus’ repeated refrain of “Assimilate/Assimilate” can be seen as an invitation to the listener to contemplate their own feelings on submission and conformity. The chorus reflects the idea that people will often do whatever is required of them to fit into their cultural norms, regardless of how unnatural or unjust it may be. This is further highlighted by the line “If I don’t fit in there’s something I must change”, expressing the need felt by some to fit in at the expense of their individual identity…
In the bridge, the plea “Let me be me/Let me exist” shows the need for self-expression and rebellion against the confines of conformity. This is supported by the message “Let me be/I refuse to submit”, suggesting that some people choose to resist the pressure to ‘assimilate’ into society’s narrow ideals by embracing and celebrating their individual identity.
The overall message of the song is a call to action to think critically about the ways in which society forces us to give up our individuality in favor of conformity. Skinny Puppy’s ‘Assimilate – Warsaw Version’ is a reminder to embrace our unique characteristics and break free from the limitations placed upon us.