Mya C- Convo 2

Summary

A theme that is highlighted throughout the song and video is that: Black Culture is a pillar that upholds America. The hairstyles, costumes, accessories, and vivid visuals of southern states- all point towards the impact black culture has on EVERYTHING. The depiction of black women dancing inside the “Big House” is extremely powerful because something like that occurring in the 19th century was unheard of. It’s almost as if to say, “We are reclaiming history”.

Beyonce claims her power and influence over the music industry when she states “I might get your song played on the radio cause I slay” Yes the messages Beyonce is stating are similar to my initial reaction because primarily, I inferred that she was putting a spotlight on how essential black culture is. A strong feeling of intergroup empowerment is felt with the use of symbolism and people of color with natural hairstyles dancing in a group.

Matsoukas helped Beyonce convey black empowerment by making the video thought-provoking, relatable, attention-grabbing, and relevant to today's politics regarding police brutality. An example of this would be the scene (2:13) when Beyonce is letting her long box braids flow freely as a car does donuts in the parking lot. This scene is a beautiful reminder to embrace natural hairstyles and even find liberation in them. Another example of Matsoukas’ helping Beyonce convey a theme can be seen at 4:01 where a little boy can be seen wearing a black hoodie and pants and dancing. In Front of that little boy stood a line of armed men wearing military-grade shields and gear. I believe that Matsoukas was referencing the hostility black people face regardless of their actions. I also believe the black hoodie worn by the young boy was a reference to Travon Martin who was killed while wearing a similar style of clothing.

Emotive Language: “I slay, okay, I slay okay. We gon' slay, slay”: “Slay” is a positive emotive word because it means that they are doing something exceptionally well. When she says “We gon slay” she is positively affirming to us that as a collective, we will prosper in the future.
Dysphemism: “I twirl on them haters, albino alligators” Beyonce is comparing white artists to alligators because they “bite off” black culture so that they can profit from it.

This song has become controversial because it directly calls attention to major problems the black community faces in ways other music artists haven’t before. In this song, Beyonce is a whistleblower against cultural vultures, and injustice against black people and fearlessly showcases these issues for all to see.

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