The Reactivist
I wrote this song earlier this year in response to seeing so many people online spouting political and societal anger and having the distinct sense that, despite their vehement and self-righteous words, 99% of them would never actually back up their beliefs with action. They're not activists, they're reactivists.
And as is usually the case when judging others, I noticed I've been guilty of the same thing.
The Reactivist
On the front foot, but you're never in the front lines
And you hope nobody sees
Ready with a word, but absent when it's action time
Just as scared as you can be
If anybody asks what game you're playing
Should anybody ever peek inside
And get on past the things you're saying
They'd see the things you hide
Anger is a crutch you're leaning your weight on
But it doesn't help you take a stand
Speaking double-dutch when you need to say it straight on
It's exactly as you planned
You've shouted out your dissatisfaction
To let everybody know you're aware
The world don't tremble at your reaction
It barely knows you're there
On the front foot, but you're never in the front lines
And you hope nobody sees
Ready with a word, but absent when it's action time
Just as scared as you can be
You're a little bit like me
Comments
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Very good, liked that Matt. Excellent unusual POV, you can get some really good songs if you just swivel a little bit.
Couldn't get into the music though, seemed a huge contrast in style with the tone of the message.
Expecting something along the lines of Positively 4th Street to fit the lyrics.
Loved the lyrics, good structure and rhyming scheme.
Sid
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Thanks, @sidshovel. I can see how reading the lyrics first might suggest a Positively 4th Street kinda vibe. Alas, the words and music came at the same time for this one, so it is what it wanted to be. I definitely wanted to convey a sad/pitying vibe more than a venomous one.
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Love the subject as it's a much needed subject to broach these chaotic days. And I LOVE the 'double-dutch' in place of what I might say, double-speak. I'd never heard of double-dutch used in this manner before, Matt and you've just proven that we do learn something new every day! And nice production; I love the vocals. Very cool! And now, with your wonderful melody stuck in my head it's hard to get back to my songwriting mess!
Keep 'em comin'
hummer
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I like this a lot. Some lovely lines in there. My favorite is the last, but these jumped out at me:
Anger is a crutch you're leaning your weight on
But it doesn't help you take a stand
but they're all strong.
I love your chord choices. Just a little side-step here and there to keep me wondering what's coming next. And beautifully put together.
Much to enjoy!
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Thanks for the comments, @HummerWisdom and @RainyDayMan. Getting melodies stuck in people's heads is the dream, so glad I succeeded if even for a short spell!
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