"The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" is a condemnation of discrimination against black people. Gil Scott Heron warns Americans that they will not be comfortable watching television once people take in the street. He mentions several TV series to cement his argument. According to the author, white people hide behind their TV sets while blacks are victimized. American society glorifies the white image. Gil urges white people to change their ways lest revolution damages their homes and properties. The revolution would take place in American society, and no one will be spared. Gil also condemns some black people for hypocrisy. He notes that African-Americans spew judgments and disapprovals against one another.
According to Gil, the revolutionary change that will take place in America will not be captured in TVs. He mocks triviality exhibited by white people because when the revolution comes, African-Americans will take to the streets looking for a good life. Gil insinuates that not even America’s most famous brands like Hertz and Coca-Cola will be spared. Such a huge revolution will not be covered on any TV channel. Blacks will be fighting for their rights, and no one will stop them.
Gil implies that Whites can never understand the challenges experienced by the black community. He ridicules white activists who perceive demonstrations as something entertaining to do on Saturdays. Gil stresses that white activists call for insignificance things like sexual laws and legal use of drugs. However, black people fight to live peacefully and provide for their families. According to Gil, White activists are insincere in their demonstrations because they fight for inconsequential things. The song warns white Americans against imminent political change that would occur when the black community will start protesting against oppression. During the time, not even the journalists would cover the change of events.
