Meaning of "Us and Them" by Easy Star All-Stars

The lyrics of "Us and Them" delve into the themes of division and conflict in society. The song suggests that despite our differences, we are all just ordinary individuals. However, due to various circumstances, we find ourselves pitted against each other. The line "And after all we're only ordinary men" emphasizes the common humanity that we share.

The song also comments on the nature of war and the tragedy it brings with it. The lyrics describe a scene where a general sits comfortably as soldiers die in battle. This points to the idea that the lines on the map, representing borders and territories, are arbitrary and manipulated by those in power. The phrase "Moved from side to side" implies the futility of the conflicts caused by these divisions.

Further, the lyrics criticize the social divisions and prejudices that persist in society. The lines "Black and blue, And who knows which is which and who is who" highlight the arbitrary nature of these divisions and the difficulty in discerning between them. The song suggests that these divisions only perpetuate a cycle of conflict and ultimately lead to chaos.

The song also touches upon the manipulation of the masses by those in power. The line "Haven't you heard it's a battle of words, The poster bearer cried" suggests the use of propaganda and rhetoric to sway public opinion in favor of war. The lyrics caution against blindly following the words of those in power and emphasize the importance of critical thinking and discernment.

Finally, the lyrics highlight the vulnerability and fragility of human life. The line "For the want of the price of tea and a slice, The old man died" illustrates how something as simple as economic inequality can have profound consequences. It serves as a reminder that the lives lost in conflicts are often the result of systemic issues and inequalities that need to be addressed.

Ultimately, "Us and Them" encourages empathy, understanding, and the recognition of our shared humanity. It calls for the breaking down of divisions and the rejection of the manipulation of power for personal gain.