We just analyzed the lyrics to the Red Hot Chili Peppers' song "Californication", a song about media overexposure in our society and the false portrayal of life created by it. This is a song rich in symbolism and imagery, which, in turn, helps to communicate it's message.
The visuals in the video take it another step further. The director's perspective is a creative and relevant portrayal of the theme, and I think you'll really enjoy it. Remember that this video was made in 1999, and so the likes of it were rather new.
Now I want you to view the video and listen to the song.
"Californication" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, courtesy of MTV
After you view it, I want you to respond to the theme of the song and the concept of the video in the following ways:
1. What about the overall concept helps to demonstrate the theme suggested by the lyrics?
2. Name 3 (total) ways in which the video offers a visual interpretation of the symbols and/or images in the lyrics.
3. In relation to the song's theme, why is it ironic that it is performed by the Chili Peppers and that you have just watched a video for it?
Please answer in complete sentences and as thoroughly as possible. Email me on StudyWiz with any questions.
