Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: hip-hop
Song Meaning of “The Full Retard” by El-P
“The Full Retard” by El-P is a rebellious take on the constant pressure felt by those who don’t fit the mold of conventional society. The song speaks to the difficulty of straddling the boundary between expectations and expectations, all the while desiring to fully express oneself without caring about judgement or criticism.
El-P reflects on the weight of life’s expectations, setting the plot as he speaks “Oh yeah, it’s the full retard, know what I mean? Just hit the gas and floored it, doing the human being”. He emphasizes the feeling of being caught in an endless cycle, overwhelmed by outside forces pushing you in directions you don’t want to go. But despite the pressure to conform, he continues to push forward and fight for his independence.
The chorus drives the point home as El-P states “I’m doing it my way, ain’t no other way, won’t change my mind, no matter what they say. I’m doing it my way, no price that I can pay, live life a different way, ’till death come for me one day”. These lyrics speaks of the power of perseverance throughout hard times, despite the odds stacked against you. The message is clear: we must stay true to ourselves and express our individuality no matter what.
At the end of the song, El-P leaves us with one final thought: “full retard, I’m happy feeling kinda unknown”. He encourages us to find peace in the unknown, embracing our unique path in life.