Consequently

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a stark picture of colonial conquest, using the historical event of Columbus's arrival in 1492 as a jumping-off point. It immediately establishes a contrast between the indigenous people's welcoming song and the sailors' purely economic motivations. This sets the stage for a narrative of exploitation, where the pursuit of gold leads to the decimation of the native population and their forced labor. The song highlights the destructive consequences of this encounter, framing it as an inevitable outcome of human nature driven by greed. The central tension lies in the juxtaposition of "life goes on" with "life goes wrong," driven by the word "consequently." This suggests a causal, almost deterministic relationship between human actions and their negative repercussions. The lyrics argue that man is inherently flawed, destined to be a "liar, a sneak, slave driver," implying that such behavior is not an aberration but a fundamental aspect of human nature, particularly when power and opportunity arise. The repeated use of "consequently" reinforces this idea of inevitable negative progression. The most striking aspect of the craft is the relentless repetition of "Consequently life goes on / Consequently life goes wrong." This refrain acts as a grim mantra, underscoring the idea that despite immense suffering and destruction, the world continues, and for the perpetrators, life carries on, often unburdened by the consequences of their actions. The escalating list of negative descriptors for man in the final chorus – "liar, he's a sneak, slave driver, A thief, a jiver, a creep, a conniver" – amplifies the sense of moral decay and the pervasive nature of these negative traits. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they connect a specific historical event to a broader, cynical commentary on human behavior and the cyclical nature of exploitation. The blunt, almost resigned tone, coupled with the repetitive structure, creates a powerful sense of inevitability and highlights the tragic irony that progress for some often comes at the devastating cost of others, with life continuing regardless. The song doesn't offer hope but instead presents a bleak, unflinching observation of how history unfolds through avarice and its lasting impact.