Madonna Defends Using Swastika and Guns on Tour in New Manifesto

Singer explains why she uses certain props and imagery in her shows

She has a song called "Girl Gone Wild," and lately, many have been referring to Madonna as just that.

After all, throughout her MDNA tour, the singer has created quite a bit of controversy with such stage stunts as incorporating swastikas into her shows and putting a gun to her head.

And, lest we forget, Madge has also been making headlines by ending a concert abruptly, giving shout-outs to jailed Russian punk band Pussy Riot, promoting gay rights in St. Petersburg and flashing audiences time and time again.

Now, Madonna has released what is being called her manifesto to defend her choices, namely the props and imagery she uses.

"My show/Is a journey/The journey of a soul from darkness to light/It is part cinematic musical theater/Part spectacle and sometimes intimate Performance art," it begins.

The rather lengthy letter, obtained by Billboard.com, goes on to address her use of fake guns.

"I do not condone violence or the use of guns. Rather they are symbols of wanting to appear strong and wanting to find a way to stop feelings that I find hurtful or damaging. In my case I want to stop the lies and hypocrisy of the church, the intolerance of many narrow minded cultures and societies I have experienced throughout my life and in some cases the pain I have felt from having my heart broken."

She later points out that "when you watch a film there are usually good guys and bad guys to help illustrate this point. Sometimes I play both. I enjoy acting out this journey...I know people can relate to it. It's very important to me as an artist that my show not be taken out of context."