The Meaning Behind The Song: Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.) by Anthrax

The Meaning Behind The Song: Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.) by Anthrax

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When it comes to thrash metal, there are few bands that can compete with the likes of Anthrax. Hailing from New York City, the band was formed in 1981 by guitarist Scott Ian and bassist Dan Lilker. With their fast-paced riffs, pounding drums, and aggressive vocals, Anthrax quickly established themselves as one of the leading bands in the genre.

One of their most iconic songs is “Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.)”, which was released on their 1987 album “Among the Living”. The song is a scathing criticism of American football, and it has become an anthem for fans of the band and the sport alike. But what is the meaning behind the song?

The Title

Before we delve into the lyrics, let’s first talk about the title. “Efilnikufesin” is “nise fukin life” spelled backwards, and “N.F.L.” stands for National Football League. The title is a nod to the fact that the song is a critique of American culture, specifically the obsession with football.

The Lyrics

The song’s opening lines set the tone:

It’s a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken
Perhaps they’re better left unsung
I don’t know, don’t really care
Let there be songs to fill the air

These lines suggest that the ideas and beliefs of American culture have been passed down from previous generations without questioning their validity. The lyrics also imply that these ideas may be flawed or outdated.

The next verse takes aim at the glorification of American football:

The embers of the past are now just a dying flame
What have we done, what’s to blame
The end of an era, the end of a game
The overture of understated fame

The “embers of the past” likely refers to the history of football in America, which is often romanticized and celebrated. The song suggests that the sport’s popularity has reached its peak, and that it’s time to move on to something else. The “overture of understated fame” could be a reference to the fact that football players are often celebrated for their physical prowess, but not necessarily for their intellect or other talents.

The chorus of the song is perhaps the most well-known:

N.F.L.
N.F.L.
Mean, mean stride
Today’s Tom Sawyer
Mean, mean pride

The chorus seems to be a tongue-in-cheek reference to Rush’s song “Tom Sawyer”, which has the chorus “Today’s Tom Sawyer, he gets high on you, and the space he invades, he gets by on you”. The reference might suggest that American football is a distraction or source of entertainment, and that it ultimately has little substance.

The Legacy

Since its release, “Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.)” has become a beloved song for Anthrax fans and football fans alike. It has been covered by other bands, and it has been used as an entrance theme for football players. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the fact that its message still resonates with people today.

But beyond just being a catchy tune, “Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.)” is also a reminder that music can be a powerful tool for social commentary. It shows that even a band that is known for its aggressive sound can create a song that challenges the status quo and asks the listener to consider their beliefs.

Conclusion

Anthrax’s “Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.)” remains a seminal song in the thrash metal genre, and its message is just as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1987. The song is a critique of American culture and its obsession with football, but it’s also a reminder that music can be a powerful tool for social commentary. Whether you’re a fan of Anthrax or a fan of football, there’s no denying that “Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.)” is a song that continues to resonate with people to this day.