Symbolism of Resistance and Alternative Identity in the Song 'Keluarga Babi' by Pyong Pyong

This study explores the symbolic meanings and representations of alternative identity in the song “Keluarga Babi” by the indie pop-punk band Pyong Pyong from Semarang, Indonesia. The song was selected for its articulation of cultural resistance against social domination and power through the medium of music. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach and symbolic analysis, the research examines how the figures of the “pig” (babi) and the “wolf” (srigala) in the lyrics function as social metaphors. The “pig” symbolizes marginalized groups perceived as inferior but who maintain solidarity, integrity, and courage, while the “wolf” represents corrupt power structures that oppress the people. The analysis draws on Stuart Hall’s theory of identity construction, expressivist aesthetics, and Sartrean existentialism to interpret the values of resistance and the courage to choose an alternative way of life. The findings indicate that the song constitutes a form of collective, symbolic, and existential identity expression that challenges domination and celebrates the bravery of being different. This research contributes to the discourse on independent music as a site for the production of cultural meaning and local political resistance.

Authors

Publication Details

Journal
Riwayat Educational Journal of History and Humanities
Published
2025-07-04
DOI
https://doi.org/10.24815/jr.v8i3.47101
Primary Topic
Asian Culture and Media Studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Symbolism of Resistance and Alternative Identity in the Song 'Keluarga Babi' by Pyong Pyong

Udi Utomo, Slamet Haryono, Nareswara Bima Pradipta
Riwayat Educational Journal of History and Humanities
Asian Culture and Media Studies
article

Symbolism of Resistance and Alternative Identity in the Song 'Keluarga Babi' by Pyong Pyong

Udi Utomo, Slamet Haryono, Nareswara Bima Pradipta
article en

Abstract

This study explores the symbolic meanings and representations of alternative identity in the song “Keluarga Babi” by the indie pop-punk band Pyong Pyong from Semarang, Indonesia. The song was selected for its articulation of cultural resistance against social domination and power through the medium of music. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach and symbolic analysis, the research examines how the figures of the “pig” (babi) and the “wolf” (srigala) in the lyrics function as social metaphors. The “pig” symbolizes marginalized groups perceived as inferior but who maintain solidarity, integrity, and courage, while the “wolf” represents corrupt power structures that oppress the people. The analysis draws on Stuart Hall’s theory of identity construction, expressivist aesthetics, and Sartrean existentialism to interpret the values of resistance and the courage to choose an alternative way of life. The findings indicate that the song constitutes a form of collective, symbolic, and existential identity expression that challenges domination and celebrates the bravery of being different. This research contributes to the discourse on independent music as a site for the production of cultural meaning and local political resistance.

Riwayat Educational Journal of History and HumanitiesVol. 8(3)
Openalex Percentile: Top 77%
Asian Culture and Media Studies
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