Meaning of "Everybody Knows" by Sharon Robinson

The lyrics of "Everybody Knows" by Sharon Robinson paint a bleak picture of society, where the majority of people are resigned to the fact that life is filled with dishonesty, inequality, and inevitable decay. The repeated phrase "everybody knows" suggests a sense of collective awareness and a shared understanding of the darker realities of existence. The mention of loaded dice, fixed fights, leaking boats, and lying captains symbolize a world where fairness and honesty are rare commodities. The song also delves into personal relationships, highlighting themes of infidelity, hidden truths, and inevitable endings. The references to "old Black Joe" picking cotton and a meter on your bed allude to historical injustices and the inescapable consequences of our actions. Overall, the song conveys a sense of resignation and fatalism, capturing the essence of a world where corruption and decay are commonplace, and disillusionment pervades.