Meaning of "Sixteen Tons" by Stevie Wonder

"Sixteen Tons" by Stevie Wonder delves into the harsh realities faced by the working class, specifically those working in mines or labor-intensive jobs. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is born into hardship, fighting against trouble and struggling to make ends meet. The repeated imagery of loading sixteen tons of coal symbolizes the heavy burden of labor and debt that weighs down on the protagonist, leaving him feeling trapped and unable to break free. The reference to owing his soul to the company store highlights the theme of exploitation and the cyclical nature of poverty, where individuals become indebted to their employers without a means of escape. Overall, the song serves as a poignant commentary on the plight of blue-collar workers and the systemic injustices they face in a capitalist society.