Meaning of "Strange Fruit" by UB40

"Strange Fruit" addresses the horrors of racism, specifically the lynching of Black people in the southern United States. The strange fruit symbolizes the bodies of these victims hanging from trees, contrasting the image of pastoral beauty with the gruesome reality of violence and discrimination. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the brutality faced by Black individuals, evoking a sense of injustice and sorrow. The mention of magnolia scent and burning flesh creates a stark contrast, highlighting the juxtaposition between the idyllic image of the South and the harsh truth of racial violence. Overall, the song serves as a powerful condemnation of racism and a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed against Black Americans.