The song explores the political context of mass incarceration of black Americans. This is a common problem in America examples such as for every white American 5 black Americans are incarcerated highlight this problem and is explored through the song, which explores rights and harmony. This can be shown through the Cinematography, Mise en scene and editing of the music video.
Race is constructed as a burden for the black community in this music video. An example is through the use of mise en scene the use of the black and white lighting reflects the ideas black Americans have on justice system with the only light being natural it shows there is a slim chance of change and the lack of freedom. This reinforces the negative view on the justice system.
Life in prison is presented as slow and long within the music video. An example of this being the cinematography with the slow camera movement and the slow pace of changing camera shots as it lasts longer on a particular shot. This is to represent the slow life in prison, whereas if they was to use a faster pace of changing shots it would represent running and a more hectic scene which is not a representation of prison. Reinforcing once again a negative view of society.
Throughout the music video life for Black Americans is represented as being inclosed this is conveyed through the image of high walls and bars always presented. The editing and cinematography of the slow moving camera movement along corridors of cells and high walls represents a imprisoned feeling and trapped connotation.
In conclusion the song criticise the justice system and the mistreatment of black Americans with in it.
The use of cinematography, editing and Miss en scene also represent this through the music video and not just through the lyrics.
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