The Measure Of A Man
Rising Beyond Inches: The Measure Of A Man
Lyrics
I've been marching in the streets Getting weak in my knees
The speaker has been actively participating in protests or demonstrations and feels physically exhausted or fatigued.
So many toxins in the air It's no wonder we can't breathe
There's a prevalence of harmful substances in the environment, making it difficult for people to breathe.
If you stand for revolution Better be ready to fall
If someone chooses to advocate for a revolution, they should be prepared for potential consequences or downfall.
Will you be there To answer on the call?
Asking if one will be present and responsive when the call for action or support comes.
The measure of a man ain't in how tall he stands
One's worth is not determined by physical stature but by their ability to rise again after adversity.
But how he gets on up again
Emphasizing the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges.
They were fighting for the rights to work in the mines
People fought for the right to work in dangerous conditions, unaware it could lead to their demise.
Without having the thought it'd be their last time
Highlighting the unawareness or disregard for the potential fatal consequences of their work.
Grinding your teeth working to the bones
Working extremely hard, possibly to the point of physical discomfort or exhaustion.
A painted picket sign sayin I want my bread and rose
Using symbols of protest ("picket sign") to demand basic needs like food and dignity.
The measure of a man ain't in inches or feet
A person's worth is not measured by physical dimensions but by how they handle defeat.
But how his shoulders bare his defeat
Emphasizing the importance of resilience in facing and enduring defeat or setbacks.
Killing off the old way no more Kings and queens
Advocating for the removal of traditional hierarchies (kings and queens) that suppress people.
Maybe having leaders ain't a good thing
Suggesting that having leaders might not always be beneficial or positive for society.
Chiming of a church bell let freedom ring
Symbolism of freedom ("chiming of a church bell") contrasted with the imagery of execution ("Guillotine").
Catch em on the other side of the Guillotine
Implying that those in power might face consequences or justice for their actions.
The measure of a man ain't in class or rank
Highlighting that a person's worth isn't defined by their societal status but by their willingness to make sacrifices.
But all the sacrifices he's willing to make
Emphasizing the significance of the sacrifices a person is ready to endure for a cause.
Tied up in corruption fueled by the state
Referring to the entanglement of corruption within the government, leading to imprisonment or suppression.
Taking you away, locked up in a cage
Describing the injustice of being detained or confined against one's will due to corruption.
You better stand up for something I heard you once say
Encouraging standing up for something meaningful and just.
We stand against the fascists, against all the hate
Expressing opposition to fascism and hate in all forms.
The measure of a man is nothing but a choice
Stressing that a person's essence or worth is defined by the choices they make, especially in advocating for the marginalized.
When he fights to give the broken down a voice
Highlighting the significance of fighting for the rights and representation of marginalized or oppressed groups.
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