The lyrics of "Asilazi" by Johnny Clegg reflect feelings of regret and inadequacy in the face of social injustice. The singer grapples with the weight of history and his own inaction, feeling like just another brick in the wall. The song delves into the struggle of standing up against oppression and the difficulty of making a change.

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Meaning of "Asilazi" by Johnny Clegg


"Asilazi" delves into the complexities of individual responsibility in the face of societal challenges and historical injustices. The repeated questioning of "Silindile ngenhliziyo, yonke kodwa senzeni na?" demonstrates the internal conflict and guilt of knowing something is wrong but not knowing how to address it. The reference to being "just another brick in the wall" could symbolize feeling insignificant or powerless in the larger scheme of things. Moreover, the lines highlighting the difficulty in fighting against the fading light and invisible power of hate suggest the pervasive nature of oppression and how daunting it can be to confront. The lyrics also touch upon the passing of generational responsibilities and the burden of carrying forward the fight for justice. Overall, the song portrays a sense of resignation mixed with a yearning for change, capturing the internal struggle of wanting to make a difference but feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task at hand.