Blame
Echoes of Consequence: Unveiling the Guilt in Mike + The Mechanics' 'Blame'
Lyrics
While you're defending yourself
Reflecting on self-defense
maybe you'd like to explain
Inviting an explanation
are you a king for a day
Possibly questioning temporary authority
is it some ancient campaign
Suggesting involvement in a long-standing cause
Warpaint your flag on your face
Symbolizing commitment with warpaint
Gather the troops on the line
Assembling forces for a cause
you never made a mistake
Claiming innocence, denying mistakes
There at the scene of the crime.
Being present at the crime scene
Chorus:
Repeating theme: responsibility for actions
blood on your hands
Alluding to guilt or wrongdoing
blood on your feet
Extending guilt to the feet, emphasizing responsibility
down in the pouring rain
Setting a dramatic scene in pouring rain
what do you care
Questioning the level of care or concern
out on the street
Highlighting the public space where actions have consequences
we're gonna drive you insane
Anticipating a reaction reaching insanity
nobody else to blame for all that.
Attributing blame solely to the subject
Where are the angry young men
Questioning the absence of passionate individuals
where are the fighters or yore
Where have the fighters of the past gone?
looking for trouble again
Suggesting a readiness for conflict
looking to settle a score.
Seeking resolution or revenge
Why do you reincarnate
Questioning the constant presence or recurrence
why will you always be here
Raising questions about enduring existence
pour out a nation of hate
Describing a widespread emotion of hatred
pour out an ocean of tears.
Depicting a vast amount of sorrow and grief
(Chorus)
Reiteration of responsibility theme
Nobody questions the power elite
Highlighting unquestioned authority in society
who's gonna take up the strain
Pondering who will address the challenges
nobody else to blame!
Emphasizing the absence of alternatives for blame
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