Meaning of "Themselves" by Minutemen

The lyrics of "Themselves" by Minutemen seem to be a critique of power dynamics and social inequality. The working men, possibly farmers or laborers, are urged to look beyond the rhetoric fed to them by those in authority and take a stand for themselves. The reference to "all the men who learned to hate them" could symbolize those who have been mistreated by these same authoritative figures and have developed animosity towards them. The imagery of hiding away and being afraid to pay for their crimes suggests a sense of guilt and avoidance of accountability. Overall, the song seems to highlight themes of self-reflection, exploitation, and justice.