Meaning of "The One" by Lucky Dube

The lyrics of "The One" by Lucky Dube revolve around the painful experience of a father being separated from his child. The song captures the emotions and longing of a father who never anticipated that he would end up in this situation. The tone in the opening lines suggests disbelief and a sense of irony as the father reflects on how it all started like a joke. However, the reality sinks in as he describes himself walking slowly, like a predator, in order to catch glimpses of his child playing on the playground.

The father's distress intensifies when he acknowledges that his ex-partner spoke to lawyers, who then informed the judges that he was not good around the child. This leads to a court order that keeps him away from his beloved child. The letter from the judges becomes a symbol of the physical separation between the father and child. Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, the father reassures his child that they are never far from him. He poignantly describes keeping a little box of memories in his heart, which serves as a cherished connection to his child.

The lyrics also portray the father's longing and sorrow through his actions. When he misses his child intensely, he takes walks in the park, seeking solace by observing other children who remind him of his own. The mention of stories to share and games to play highlights the meaningful moments that the father feels he has been deprived of. The tears streaming down his face reflect the deep emotional pain caused by the separation from his child.

Overall, "The One" delves into the raw emotions experienced by a father who is forcefully kept away from his child. It explores themes of love, longing, and the bonds that transcend physical presence. The lyrics convey the crippling impact of legal instruments and societal constraints on parental relationships. The song serves as a compassionate call for understanding and empathy towards individuals facing similar situations.