Meaning of "Missionary Man" by Eurythmics

"Missionary Man" delves into the internal conflict of the protagonist who feels the weight of original sin but also rebels against the authority and control imposed by a missionary figure. The references to being "born an original sinner" and "borne from original sin" suggest a deep-rooted awareness of human fallibility and imperfection. The warning not to mess with a missionary man implies a caution against blindly following religious figures who claim divine authority, indicating a skepticism towards organized religion and its role in exerting power over individuals. The missionary man is portrayed as someone with a serious demeanor and a sense of superiority, using fear tactics to assert dominance over others. The scenes in the jungle and the reference to a monkey on a tree add an element of exoticism and suggest a clash of cultures and beliefs. Overall, the lyrics suggest a questioning of religious dogma, a challenge to traditional beliefs, and a call for self-awareness and independence in the face of external influences that seek to dictate one's beliefs and actions.