Understand How Clenching the Fists of Dissent Shows Political Protest From an Unexpected Front.

Clenching the fists of dissent combines the usual heavy metal rage at the world with a neat skewering of the dominant political norms.

Written as a protest song by Machine Head, the song was not designed to please radio stations, commercial media outlets such as MTV or the band’s own managers, who felt that by expressing themselves in this way the band was displaying ignorance of what would be necessary for commercial success.

The fans disagreed, providing yet another example of the common people reminding those in charge that the kinds of things which are easily approved are not always what are wanted.

The band’s managers feared that the subject matter, which targeted the use of war as a blunt tactic to silence those who disagree with the official party line, would fail to resonate with audiences, especially at the song’s 10 minute length.

However, Clenching the fists of dissent has proven to be extremely popular with the band’s core audience and is a requested concert staple.

The song is not an easily dismissible rant against parental authority, but a put down of political manipulations of the public demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the hypocrisy of the modern age.

The work of the band also provides a window for many Americans into the minds of youths who are often dismissed as being a fringe element.

Yet heavy metal fans, or metal heads as they are popularly known, consistently show themselves to be fervent champions of free speech, democracy, and equal rights.

In notable contrast to many traditional proponents of freedom, metal heads also take the initiative to turn up the volume on their declarations of injustice, protests of societal control, and disdain for manipulative politics.

Mainstream freedom fighters could take a few lessons in bravery, boldness and consistency of message from these kinds of metal groups.

Learning from the Fringe

The growing popularity of songs like Clenching the fists of dissent provides a useful object lesson to those who wish to enlist the youth of America in the fight for freedom.

Just as evangelists talk of meeting the people where they are, so too can champions of democratic freedoms gain new supporters by meeting these youth where they are now.

By reaching out to them, champions of democracy may have to alter their vocabulary, but they may find that semantics notwithstanding, this group speaks the right language.

As an added bonus, here is a population that is already experienced at doing what is right, even if it looks odd, offends sensitive types, or is politically incorrect.

Take Allies where They Can be Found

In the war for the preservation of American freedoms, it is necessary to take allies where they can be found.

Many do find metal heads intimidating due to their dress and adopted mannerisms.

Yet as those who seek freedom preach that all are equal and freedom is found in ideas, to truly walk the walk it is necessary to look beyond exterior window dressing.

Groups that write songs like Clenching the fists of dissent live their protest in real life, and have the discipline to stand up to authority where others wilt at the threat of disapproval.

As American’s rights are increasingly threatened, it could be useful to take a few notes on survival from this loud and proud group of protesting citizens.