We're Not Going Back
Breaking Chains: The Housemartins' Call to Resist Going Back
Lyrics
Do you remember the good old days?
Reflecting on past times, possibly nostalgically.
An empty stomach and a tear-stained face
Describing a difficult past with hunger and sadness.
Do you remember how it used to be?
Recalling how things used to be in a general sense.
The walking dead in the factory
Depicting a sense of lifelessness or monotony in a workplace.
I won't talk because
Choosing not to speak, perhaps due to dissatisfaction.
It's not as it was
Emphasizing a change from the past.
You don't want the sack
Advice against actions leading to unemployment.
Then don't doff your cap
Suggesting not to conform to authority just for job security.
{we are not going back} don't back pedal down a broken track
Asserting a refusal to regress, using the metaphor of a broken path.
{we are not going back} "I'm alright jack" is an easy trap
Criticizing the attitude of being self-centered and unconcerned about others.
{we are not going back} no more need for wearing all black
Rejecting the idea of mourning or conforming to societal norms.
{we are not going back} "I'm alright jack" is an easy trap
Reiterating the warning against a complacent attitude.
Do you remember the dail pain
Describing the enduring pain of a challenging life.
Of walking arouhnd with a ball and chain?
Metaphorically referring to the burdens of life as a restrictive chain.
Do you recall when it was hard buyt fair?
Remembering a time when life was tough but fair.
You got your share on a line of a prayer.
Attaining success through perseverance and prayer.
Please put in my box
Pleading for financial support, possibly for basic needs.
Some money for socks
Requesting money for practical items like socks.
Don't turn back the clocks
Discouraging a return to past circumstances.
It's not as it was
Reiterating the changed nature of the present.
{we are not going back} don't back pedal down a broken track
Reinforcing the commitment to moving forward.
{we are not going back} "I'm alright jack" is an easy trap
Warning against the "I'm alright jack" mentality.
{we are not going back} no more need for wearing all black
Rejecting the need to conform to societal expectations.
{we are not going back} "I'm alright jack" is an easy trap
Reiterating the danger of a self-centered and complacent attitude.
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