Meaning of "The Handshake" by Bad Religion

"The Handshake" delves into the superficiality of societal interactions, particularly the act of shaking hands. The song suggests that handshakes, while often perceived as a sign of friendship or respect, are merely superficial gestures lacking any genuine care or concern for the well-being of others. In this context, the handshake symbolizes the facade people put on, hiding their true intentions and motives. The lyrics imply that many interactions in the modern world are driven by personal gain and self-interest, rather than genuine connection or empathy.

Furthermore, the song highlights the role of contracts in determining the nature of relationships. By stating that "contracts determine the best friendships," the lyrics allude to the transactional nature of modern relationships, where personal gain and benefits are prioritized above all else. This concept ties into the overarching idea that everyone is competing for patronage, seeking to further their own interests at the expense of others.

The lyrics also touch upon the divisions created by race and class. The lines "Every time you shake someone's hand and you share neither color nor creed, you gotta overcome the obstacles of history" allude to the deep-rooted historical prejudices and barriers that still exist in society. The mention of restrained passion, mistrust, and bigotry suggests that these barriers have become the foundation of modern society, leading to a lack of harmony and an emphasis on class and race divisions.

Despite the disillusionment with society, the song expresses a belief in the importance of unity and compromise. The lyrics state, "Now I believe in unity, and I am willing to compromise," indicating a desire for a more harmonious world. However, the song also asserts the need for individuals to remain true to themselves and not compromise their values or integrity merely for the sake of unity. This theme is reflected in the lines, "But I'm not gonna lie or sell my soul."

Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that sometimes individuals must fend for themselves and reject insincere gestures, represented by the repeated phrase "Fend for yourself and shun the handshake." This emphasizes the idea that genuine connection and meaningful relationships cannot be built on superficiality and self-interest alone. It calls for individuals to stand up for themselves, prioritize their own well-being, and not be swayed by false appearances or empty gestures.