The lyrics of "Barrel Of The Gun" by Levellers explore the futility and destructive nature of trying to achieve justice through violence, specifically through the use of firearms. It tells the story of two men and a woman killed by the law, and highlights the cycle of violence and loss that occurs when justice is sought through aggressive means.

Meaning of "Barrel Of The Gun" by Levellers

The lyrics of "Barrel Of The Gun" deliver a powerful message about the inability to truly achieve justice through violence. It portrays a grim picture of the consequences of using guns and warfare to settle disputes or seek retribution. The reference to the S.A.S. and a car bomb reflects real-life incidents where violence begets more violence, leading to an endless cycle of death and devastation. The repeated refrain "you can't mete justice from the barrel of a gun" drives home the central theme of the song - that true justice cannot be achieved through force and bloodshed. The lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and conflict, urging listeners to seek alternative, peaceful solutions to resolve conflicts and achieve justice.