Handlebars (Flobots song)
"Handlebars" is a song by the Denver-based alternative hip hop band Flobots, released in 2007 as part of their debut album, Fight with Tools. The song gained significant popularity due to its complex lyrical content and the accompanying music video.
The song's central theme revolves around the concept of power and control, represented metaphorically by the handlebars of a bicycle. The lyrics explore the various ways individuals can wield power, ranging from seemingly benign activities like riding a bicycle to more destructive acts such as building bombs or controlling nations.
The verses detail increasingly powerful and potentially harmful actions that the narrator could perform, all initiated with the phrase "I can ride my bike with no handlebars." This structure emphasizes the progression from innocent abilities to the potential for great influence and, ultimately, potential for both creation and destruction.
The song's significance lies in its exploration of moral responsibility and the consequences of unchecked power. It prompts listeners to consider the ethical implications of their actions and the potential impact they can have on the world. The lyrics are open to interpretation, allowing for reflection on personal agency and the broader societal forces that shape individual choices.