Meaning of "Patience" by George Michael

"Patience" by George Michael delves into the themes of disillusionment, materialism, and the devaluation of human life. The first verse creates a metaphorical setting of a conversation where no one listens, suggesting a lack of genuine communication and empathy in society. The line "Did God already leave the table?" implies a sense of abandonment or apathy from higher powers towards humanity's struggles. The mention of "pure white castles in the sand" juxtaposes an idealized image of wealth and abundance with the fleeting nature of material possessions.

The second verse introduces the conflict between those in power, represented by the satellite, and the voice of reason, embodied by the old man. The satellite represents the media, technology, and the prevailing narrative of progress and prosperity. It attempts to seduce people with its portrayal of abundance and convinces them to trade their families for the illusion of liberty. The old man, on the other hand, symbolizes wisdom, tradition, and an understanding of the true value of human connections. He refuses to sacrifice his family for worldly gains, highlighting the emptiness of material possessions.

The chorus encourages the listener to look into the eyes of patient men, emphasizing that every person holds a spark of divinity within them. The varying eye colors mentioned highlight the universality of this message. However, the song suggests that society fails to recognize this inherent worth, as it allows children, old people, and women to suffer and be neglected. The line "On imaginary shelves" underscores the idea that society views these marginalized groups as mere objects or commodities, disregarding their humanity.

In the closing lines, the lyrics depict a scene where a man turns his back on the suffering, holding children in his arms. This suggests a sense of detachment and indifference towards the struggles of others, emphasizing the devaluation of human life in the face of material pursuits.