Song meaning of The Smell of Rebellion by Matilda the Musical Original Cast

The song "The Smell of Rebellion" from the musical Matilda conveys a message about the importance of discipline and conformity in a school setting. The lyrics are delivered by the character Miss Trunchbull, the strict headmistress, who believes that rebellion and dissent among the students must be eradicated. 

Miss Trunchbull describes the rebellion as a foul odor that can only be detected by the keenest observers, but is heavily present within the school. She sees it as insulting and a sign of insubordination. To combat this, she uses physical education to make the students sweat, believing that it will reveal those who have rebellious thoughts and separate them from the conforming ones. Through this physical discipline, she hopes to suppress any signs of resistance.

The song emphasizes the need for discipline and control in an educational environment, as Miss Trunchbull believes that rebellion and dissent are detrimental to the proper functioning of a school. She argues that discipline is necessary to prevent rebellion from spreading and taking hold. The repeated chants of "discipline" reinforce Miss Trunchbull's perspective on the importance of conformity and obedience.

Overall, the song suggests that rebellion and individuality are seen as negative and disruptive forces within an institutional setting, and that conformity and discipline are necessary for maintaining order and control. It reflects a traditional view of education that diminishes the value of independent thinking and creative expression.