Stand

Poison's song "Stand" is a powerful anthem that calls for personal integrity and the courage to uphold one's beliefs. The lyrics emphasize the importance of standing firm in one's convictions, even in the face of societal pressures and challenges. The opening lines, "We all carry the cross and speak what we're taught / Lies and money become the white man's God," suggest a critique of societal norms and the corrupting influence of materialism and falsehoods. This sets the stage for a broader message about the need for individual moral strength and authenticity.

The chorus, with its repetitive and emphatic call to "Stand, stand, stand for what you believe," serves as a rallying cry for listeners to remain steadfast in their values. The song encourages self-expression and warns against repression, as seen in the lines, "Express yourself in the face of change / Repress yourself, you surely seal your fate." This highlights the idea that true freedom and fulfillment come from being true to oneself and one's principles.

The plea for rescue in the bridge, "Somebody rescue me, come down and rescue me / I know the soul of a good man has got to be free," underscores the struggle and yearning for liberation from societal constraints. It suggests that standing up for one's beliefs is not just a personal battle but a collective one, where the soul's freedom is at stake. Poison's musical style, characterized by its hard rock edge and emotive delivery, amplifies the song's message, making it a compelling call to action for listeners to live authentically and courageously.