Meaning of "Watchdogs" by UB40

The lyrics of "Watchdogs" delve into the theme of protection and the challenges of staying righteous in a world filled with temptations and falsehoods. The song employs the metaphor of watchdogs, symbolizing the protectors that guard against the metaphorical "hungry wolves" that represent corrupting influences and deceit. The repeated phrase "You try to close your ears, and you try to close your eyes" suggests a desire to avoid exposure to negative influences, but the following line "But the blasphemies keep coming and tempting you with lies" reveals that these temptations are persistent and difficult to ignore.

The lyrics also reflect a sense of vulnerability and fear in the face of corruption. The line "You're in danger of corruption and you're always running scared" portrays a sense of unease and a constant state of apprehension. This fear stems from the inability to make decisions and the feeling of being unprepared for the challenges that may arise. The repeated references to distance and sounds in the distance further emphasize this sense of vulnerability, as if the corruption and temptations are always lurking nearby, waiting to pounce.

Overall, the lyrics convey a message of the importance of remaining vigilant and guarded against the forces that seek to corrupt and hinder one's ability to make sound decisions. The metaphor of watchdogs suggests the need for constant protection and vigilance in order to navigate a world where temptations and falsehoods are persistent. The lyrics serve as a reminder to stay strong, avoid corruption, and not let fear paralyze one's ability to make choices.