English Subtitles

English is the original language of Thoughts Become Things. It is the language in which the poem was written, performed, and first brought to life on screen. The English subtitles serve as the foundation from which every other translation in this project has grown.

More than simple captions, the English subtitles were carefully crafted to preserve rhythm, breath, and meaning. The film’s poetry moves quickly, blending spoken word with layered imagery and sound. Subtitles ensure that every line, pause, and metaphor can be fully absorbed—whether viewers are watching closely, revisiting the film, or experiencing it in a different setting.

These subtitles also play an important role in accessibility. They allow Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences to engage with the film, support viewers watching in noisy or quiet environments, and provide a clear reference point for international translators adapting the work into other languages.

All subsequent translations—Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, and French—were developed using the English subtitles as their starting point. In this way, the English version acts as both the original voice and the bridge that carries the story across cultures.

At its core, this page represents the source. The place where the words first took shape—before they traveled the world.

You can watch with English subtitles via YouTube. Select English subtitles in the video player to experience this translation.

Thoughts Become Things

You ain’t catching me.

Even if you was the man sitting off

up at Specialty, naturally.

Come on, let’s get ready for bed.

You know, you’re just like your father, tomorrow

You’re gonna be great, all of your friends will be there.

I’ll be there and your ancestors will be with you forever.

We work in the ran puddles on your cortex,

Gombeys on your brain

hatchets to your scalp, red stain on your wave

and the arrow will go where the bow has been aimed

So the future will move how the past has been trained.

Teach us to build and foundation is laid

Teach us to will, and thoughts become things.

Speak us your words and the lost become kings

Words become wings, so you ain’t catching me.

Even if you was the man sitting off up at Specialty,

naturally

puddles on your cortex, Gombeys on your brain.