Meaning of "King" by UB40

The lyrics of "King" by UB40 convey a sense of disappointment and frustration with the world's inability to embrace unity and equality. The constant repetition of the question, "King, where are your people now?" suggests a longing for the visionary leader and the potential he represented. This figure, referred to as the "King," is portrayed as someone who had a dream of a promised land where people of all nations would live in harmony, "walking hand in hand." However, the reality is far from this dream. The "people" are described as "chained and pacified," implying that they have been subdued and controlled, perhaps by oppressive governments or societal structures. The "King" attempted to show them a different path, but his efforts were in vain.

The lyrics further suggest that the dream of unity and equality is still not fully accepted by society. The line "But they're not ready to accept/ That dream situation, yet" implies that although progress may have been made, there is still a long way to go. The word "situation" suggests that the dream is not only an ideal, but also a practical and tangible reality that has not yet been realized. It implies that society has yet to fully grasp and implement the principles of equality and unity.

The repetition of the line "And for that you died" serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dare to challenge the status quo and work towards a better world. It alludes to historical figures, such as Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated for civil rights and paid the ultimate price for their beliefs. The death of the "King" symbolizes the suppression and silencing of those who strive for change.

Overall, the lyrics of "King" convey a sense of disappointment and longing for a world that has yet to fully embrace unity and equality. It highlights the challenges and resistance faced by those who dare to challenge the existing power structures and fight for a more just society.