Basics In Behavior

The song 'Basics In Behavior' by The Living Tombstone delves into the theme of educational pressure and the struggle for freedom within a rigid school system. The lyrics paint a picture of a school environment where learning is enforced to the point of confinement, and the character Baldi represents an authoritarian figure wielding a wooden ruler, a symbol of old-school discipline. The song's narrative is set in a world where students are trapped until they have been 'educated,' suggesting a critique of an education system that prioritizes grades and compliance over genuine learning and well-being.

The chorus of the song reflects the students' desire to find meaning and answers within their education, hinting at a deeper quest for understanding beyond the confines of their textbooks. The repeated line 'Is it okay to have a feeling that maybe there is more to this game' suggests that the students are aware of a larger context to their education, one that extends beyond the classroom walls. This line also introduces the idea that the school experience is a 'game,' with rules to follow and consequences for failure, which can be a metaphor for how students navigate the pressures of academic achievement.

The Living Tombstone is known for creating music that often incorporates themes from video games and internet culture, and 'Basics In Behavior' is no exception. The song is actually inspired by the indie horror game 'Baldi's Basics in Education and Learning,' where players must escape a school after being trapped by the titular character, Baldi. The game itself is a satirical take on educational video games, and The Living Tombstone's song captures the essence of the game's commentary on the educational system. The lyrics 'Sweep through the halls, to escape, will have some sacrifices' and 'Have to be brave or better keep behaving' encapsulate the tension between the desire for freedom and the need to conform to the rules imposed by authority figures.