The Meaning Behind The Song: Rät by Penelope Scott

In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song “Rät” by Penelope Scott. Released in 2020, this song serves as a breakup letter to the tech cult that is Silicon Valley. With its thought-provoking lyrics and catchy melody, “Rät” sheds light on conflicting views on modern wealth and the idolization of the rich.

Song Details:

Title	Artist	Writer/Composer	Album	Release Date	Genre	Duration	Producer
Rät	Penelope Scott	Penelope Scott	Public Void	August 29, 2020	Pop, Space Synth-Pop, Chiptune	N/A	Penelope Scott

“Rät” was originally called “Elongated Muskrat,” a clever reference to Elon Musk, the prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Penelope Scott, like many other Gen Z kids, admired scientists and Silicon Valley while holding a skeptical view of religion. This song reflects her conflicting emotions towards the modern tech industry, addressing the complex relationship between idolizing the rich and hating their wealth.

As the song begins, Scott reveals her background coming from scientists and atheists, emphasizing the influence of the tech world on her upbringing. She mentions the technology, experiments, and sacrilege conducted by her mentors, highlighting the pursuit of public good intertwined with questionable actions.

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Scott admits her admiration for the subject of the song, describing them as beautiful, vulnerable, powerful, and successful. She falls for their flamethrowers, tunnels, and technological innovations. Studying code to follow in their footsteps, Scott realizes the tragedy of discovering that half of what she believed was true.

The pre-chorus expresses a scathing critique of the elitism and flaws within the tech community. Scott points out the hypocrisy of the West Coast’s supposed radical values and higher net worth. She references biting the apple, symbolizing the trust she placed in her idol, but finding their proposal immodest and insane.

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The chorus reveals Scott’s deep love for the subject of the song, acknowledging her desire to be like them and do what they do. She believed in their vision so much that she lived and loved in their world, only to feel stupid and used in the end.

In the second verse, Scott revisits her personal connection to the tech world, highlighting her role as the hot girl in her computer science class. She confesses her infatuation with circuit boards, rocket ships, and images of the stars, hoping that her idol could be what they pretended to be.

Scott expresses her disappointment when her longing to explore the moon transformed into the realization that the stars could become just another piece of land to colonize. The juxtaposition suggests that she desires a world where space exploration is inclusive and does not serve the interests of the wealthy few.

In the third verse, Scott challenges the notion of eating the rich, stating that she would have to consume her heroes first. She suggests that her own privilege, paid by blood or through her family, may deserve the same fate or even worse. However, she asserts that she does not need their money and speaks her truth with conviction.

Scott confronts the subject directly, asserting that as a girl with her own experiences, she should have a say in the matter. She criticizes their choices, referencing their failed promises to be like Nikola Tesla but being more like Thomas Edison, who is often perceived as a rival to Tesla.

As the song reaches its powerful climax, Scott expresses her deepest emotions. She confesses her love once again, acknowledging that she still feels a connection despite the pain and embarrassment of being used. The repetition of feeling used and the desire to be taken to the moon suggests a longing for genuine connection and authenticity.

In conclusion, “Rät” by Penelope Scott captures the complexities and contradictions of idolizing the tech industry while also recognizing its flaws and the abuse of power. Through her heartfelt and thought-provoking lyrics, Scott invites listeners to examine their own relationship with success, wealth, and the pursuit of greatness.

*Please note that the interpretations in this article are subjective and may differ from the artist’s intention.