Song Annotation –
Complete and submit with your seminar notes and reflection
1. Annotate lines that address this question (underline, and write your thoughts in the
margins):
-Is it a greater sin to betray society’s expectations, or to betray your own desires?
2. Annotate at least 2 lines that inspire questions, connections, and/or revelations (write
your thoughts in the margins)
3. Annotate at least 1 use of metaphor, and explain what it means (in the margin, or at the
end)
"Not Afraid"
Eminem
I'm not afraid (I'm not afraid)
To take a stand (to take a stand)
Everybody (everybody)
Come take my hand (come take my hand)
We'll walk this road together, through the storm
Whatever weather, cold or warm
Just letting you know that, you're not alone
Holla if you feel like you've been down the same road (same road)
Yeah, it's been a ride
I guess I had to, go to that place, to get to this one
Now some of you, might still be in that place
If you're trying to get out, just follow me
I'll get you there
You can try and read my lyrics off of this paper before I lay 'em
But you won't take the sting out these words before I say 'em
Cause ain't no way I'ma let you stop me from causing mayhem
When I say I'ma do something I do it,
I don't care what you think,
I'm doing this for me, so who cares about the world
Feed it beans, it's gassed up, if it thinks it's stopping me
I'ma be what I set out to be, without a doubt undoubtedly
And all those who look down on me I'm tearing down your balcony
No if ands or buts, don't try to ask him why or how can he
From "Infinite" down to the last "Relapse" album
He's still doing nothing, whether he's on salary paid hourly
Until he bows hourly or he gives up
Whichever comes first, for better or worse
He's married to the game, like a who cares for Christmas
His gift is a curse, forget the Earth, he's got the urge
To pull up from the dirt, and blow off the whole universe
What is Eminem’s perspective of following the rules (society’s expectations) vs. following your
instincts? Refer to at least one line/phrase from “I’m Not Afraid” in your explanation.