The song 'The Price of Life Itself' by Moon Walker is a profound critique of societal issues, including systemic racism, police brutality, the militarization of the police force, and the corrupting influence of money in various institutions. The song illustrates a harsh, unapologetic look at the realities of inequality and injustice ingrained within modern society.
The emotional journey of 'The Price of Life Itself' sees listeners being ushered through an intense landscape filled with discontent and the harsh truth about the socio-political infrastructure. From the onset, Moon Walker doesn't shy away from pulling back the metaphorical skin to reveal the diseases plaguing society — endemic corruption, the commoditization of life, and the poisonous allure of power.
As we traverse the lyrics, Moon Walker exposes the unnerving aspects of a world where basic human principles like freedom have to be bought at 'too steep' a price, one that often means fueling the same military-industrial complex that operates with transactional awareness rather than moral values. There is an unrelenting pacing to the emotional journey, like a cascade of realizations about the dark corners of humanity — from the way militia are treated, to the superficial sanctity of modern justice.
In the second verse, Moon Walker delves more deeply into racial injustice, spotlighting a white-centric view in law and governance that excludes and oppresses those of different skin colors and backgrounds. The emotional toll continues as listeners are made to face the ignorance and selective blindness of a society that prefers not to drown in its uncomfortable truths, instead maintaining a facade of stability by ignoring those who 'sink'.
The interlude and outro pivot the song into a more personal reflection, bringing the macro issues to a heartfelt confessional from the artist. Moon Walker relays what it means to grow up with the notion that there are 'sheep and wolves' and the societal privilege that allows one to choose — a choice not granted to everyone. The close is a critical look at privilege, an unflinching condemnation of those who abuse their positions of power without facing repercussions, driving home a sobering understanding of 'The Price of Life Itself'.
"We're raiding drug stores to finally cure the disease"
The artist uses 'raiding drug stores' as a metaphor for desperately looking for fixes to deep societal issues, underlying the fact that many are seeking remedies for symptoms, rather than addressing the root causes.
"Did you think freedom would be free?"
Moon Walker challenges the idea that freedom is an inherent right, suggesting that in our society, freedom often comes with a price -- whether it's in the form of giving up privacy or other liberties.
"We all poison the water, and drink it up because it tastes so sweet"
This metaphor criticizes our collective complicity in corrupt systems, highlighting the willingness of society to partake in harmful practices when they're masked by immediate gratification or superficial allure.
"There ain't no justice, white judge addresses all white jury"
The artist is directly addressing systemic racism within the judiciary system, illustrating a lack of diversity and representation for racialized individuals within legal proceedings.