“Consume,” “Obey,” “Conform,” '&, “Submit”: Four Words That Started a Conversation
Four simple words.
Consume.
Obey.
Conform.
Submit.
At first glance, they may seem like ordinary words.
But when placed together, they create a powerful reaction.
Some people see them as a warning.
Some see them as social commentary.
Some see them as artistic expression.
Others simply recognize them as memorable symbols from popular culture.
The meaning depends on the person looking at them.
That is the power of a symbol.
It creates a conversation.
More Than Just Words
Words have always carried meaning beyond their dictionary definitions.
A single word can represent an idea, a feeling, or an entire philosophy.
Throughout history, words have been used on:
Flags
Posters
Artwork
Clothing
Advertisements
Political movements
Cultural movements
The right combination of words can make people stop and think.
That is exactly why Consume, Obey, Conform, and Submit continue to interest people today.
Consume: The World of Buying and Wanting
The word Consume can have many meanings.
At its simplest, it means to use or purchase something.
Everyone consumes.
We need food, clothing, technology, and other products as part of everyday life.
But the word can also raise questions about modern consumer culture.
How much do we buy because we need something?
How much do we buy because we are encouraged to want something?
Do the things we own reflect who we are, or do they influence how we see ourselves?
These questions have been explored by philosophers, artists, filmmakers, and writers for generations.
Obey: Following Rules and Expectations
The word Obey is powerful because every society depends on some form of rules and cooperation.
Following laws and respecting others are important parts of living together.
But the word also creates another question:
When should we follow, and when should we question?
History is filled with examples of people who challenged accepted ideas and created change.
Innovation, science, art, and social progress often begin when someone asks:
"Is there another way?"
Conform: The Pressure to Fit In
Humans naturally want to belong.
We form communities.
We create traditions.
We share ideas.
Connection is an important part of life.
However, conformity can also create questions.
Do we sometimes change ourselves just to fit expectations?
Do trends influence our choices?
Are we expressing our own personality, or simply following what is popular?
Finding the balance between belonging and individuality is something many people think about.
Submit: The Idea of Giving Up Control
The word Submit may suggest surrender or acceptance.
Like the other words, its meaning depends on context.
It can describe cooperation, trust, or allowing something to happen.
It can also raise questions about personal independence and decision-making.
Who influences our choices?
What ideas do we accept without examining?
Where do we choose to give our attention and energy?
The Influence of They Live
These words are strongly connected with the 1988 science fiction film They Live, which became a cultural symbol because of its themes and imagery.
The movie has been interpreted in different ways.
Some viewers see it as a story about aliens.
Others see commentary about advertising, consumer culture, and social awareness.
Some see both.
That is part of what makes the film memorable.
It allows people to discuss ideas rather than simply watch a story.
Symbols Do Not Tell You What to Think
A meaningful symbol does not always have one fixed interpretation.
Two people can look at the same image and see completely different things.
One person may see a reference to a classic film.
Another may see a reminder to think critically.
Another may simply appreciate the design.
Art becomes meaningful because people connect with it personally.
Designed by Concordia: Expression Through Design
At Designed by Concordia, our goal is not to tell people what to believe.
Our designs are created as expressions of ideas, culture, history, and personal interpretation.
The themes behind Consume, Obey, Conform, and Submit are meant to encourage curiosity and conversation.
They invite people to ask questions:
What influences us?
What shapes our decisions?
What ideas do we accept?
How do we express ourselves?
The answers belong to each individual.
Wear the Conversation
A meaningful design can be more than something you wear.
It can be a conversation starter.
It can represent an interest.
It can remind you of an idea.
It can encourage curiosity.
Whether you connect with the cultural meaning, the artwork, the film inspiration, or simply the design itself, the choice is yours.
Explore Designed by Concordia collections inspired by ideas, symbolism, and personal expression:
