Meaning of "Blackman" by Hazel O'Connor

"Blackman" by Hazel O'Connor serves as a powerful commentary on societal inequalities and injustices. The song addresses issues such as racism, classism, and discrimination, focusing on the experiences of those who are marginalized and oppressed. The repetition of "I am the blackness, I am the dark" emphasizes the speaker's identification with the darker aspects of life that society often shuns or deems unworthy. The lyrics also touch on themes of addiction and survival, with lines like "I am the alcoholic pissed in the park" and "I eat the garbage and you eat the cream" highlighting the stark disparities in living conditions and opportunities. The mention of selling one's body to survive further underscores the harsh realities faced by many individuals who are forced to make desperate choices in a world that judges and condemns them. Overall, "Blackman" challenges the listener to confront their own biases and prejudices, urging them to recognize the humanity and struggles of those who are too often overlooked or mistreated.