☝️ Key Points
- The song lyrics address social injustices and the stagnant state of society.
- They urge not to accept the existing injustices, but to actively work to change them.
- There is a mention of racism, prejudice, and structural racism.
- The lyrics criticize the narrow-mindedness of society and emphasize that laws alone are not enough to eliminate injustices.
- The message of the song is that things may be this way, but one should not simply accept that they remain so.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song "The Way It Is" by
Bruce Hornsby deal with social injustices and the stagnant state of society. They show that certain things are just the way they are, but that they should not be believed easily.
The text begins with the description of people standing in line waiting for government assistance because they cannot find work. They are frustrated and trapped in their situation. At the same time, a contrast is made with a wealthy man in a fancy suit who walks past the poor women and tells them to get a job. This highlights the social divide between the rich and the poor.
In the chorus, it is emphasized that this is simply the way things are, but they should not be believed easily. This can be understood as an invitation to not accept the existing injustices, but to actively work to change them.
In the second verse, a little boy is depicted being told that he cannot go where the others are going because he looks different. This points out racism and prejudices. An old man is also addressed and asked how he can bear to think that way. The text criticizes the narrow-mindedness and prejudices of society.
The third verse mentions a law from 1964 that is supposed to give a little more to those who have less. But it is emphasized that this law does not change people's mindset, especially when it comes to hiring attitudes. This points out structural racism and that laws alone are not enough to eliminate injustices.
Finally, the chorus is repeated to reinforce the message that things may be the way they are, but they should not simply be accepted to remain that way. The lyrics of the song "The Way It Is" by Bruce Hornsby urge to fight against injustices and stand up for change.