The lyrics of "Guns In The Ghetto" by UB40 depict a child worried about their father working in a dangerous environment, the presence of violence and guns in their community, and the fear and uncertainty of growing up in such a challenging environment.

Meaning of "Guns In The Ghetto" by UB40

The song "Guns In The Ghetto" captures the heartbreaking reality of families living in violent and impoverished neighborhoods, where the prevalence of guns and crime threaten their safety and sense of security. The child in the lyrics expresses the deep concern and longing for their father, who risks his life by going to work each day. The repeated pleas for their father to come back home underscore the fear and anxiety that permeates their daily lives. The lines "They're giving out guns in the ghetto, They're saying they will set you free" highlight the destructive cycle of violence perpetuated by the easy access to firearms and the false promises of liberation through such means. The imagery of the mother crying, the grandmother's desolation, and the child's loneliness paint a vivid picture of the impact of gun violence on families, leaving them feeling helpless and isolated. Through this poignant narrative, the song emphasizes the devastating consequences of living in a community plagued by guns and crime, ultimately calling for awareness and change to break this cycle of destruction.