Meaning of "Don't Look Now" by Minutemen

The lyrics of "Don't Look Now" by Minutemen speak to the idea of societal division of labor and the exploitation of certain groups for the benefit of others. The repeated question of "Who'll take..." highlights the unacknowledged work that goes into sustaining our daily lives, such as mining, farming, and manufacturing. By stating "Don't look now, it ain't you or me," the song emphasizes the disconnect between those who benefit from others' labor and those who actually perform it. The lines "someone's done your starving" and "someone's done your praying" further illustrate this imbalance, pointing out that while some enjoy the fruits of labor, others suffer and remain unheard. These lyrics serve as a critique of the unequal distribution of resources and labor in society, challenging listeners to recognize their own privilege and the unseen work that allows their comfort.