Song meaning of Come Alive (The War of the Roses) by Janelle Monáe

The song "Come Alive (The War of the Roses)" by Janelle Monáe portrays a message of empowerment, rebellion, and the freedom to express oneself. The lyrics depict a character named Tommy who thinks that the narrator is mentally unstable, with "crazies" back in their mind and "children" clouding their head. The narrator, however, finds solace and escapes from this judgmental world by dancing inside their mind.

The chorus highlights the transformative power of this escape, with the narrator coming alive and going wild like a "schizo" (slang for someone with schizophrenia) running free. The use of this term challenges societal norms and stereotypes surrounding mental health, suggesting that it can lead to a sense of liberation rather than confinement.

The verses and bridge further emphasize rebellion and defiance against those who try to suppress the narrator's true self. They kick at windows, dance in dungeons, and challenge anyone who tries to control or undermine them. The bridge suggests that society wants the narrator to conform, take medication, and silence their uniqueness. However, they refuse to be buried six feet under, as while the metaphorical roses of conformity die, they come alive.

In the final verse, the narrator warns someone to leave town because they are coming for them. This displays the transformation of the narrator from being passive to taking action and seeking vengeance against those who have belittled or oppressed them. The outro emphasizes that when others judge or criticize, the best course of action is to keep dancing inside one's mind and come alive.

Overall, "Come Alive (The War of the Roses)" encourages individuals to be true to themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and resist societal pressures. It conveys a powerful message of self-expression, empowerment, and the freedom to break free from judgment and criticism.