He Knows I'd Love to See Him

The section of this song that really speaks to me is the final verse:

"You're just another person in the world,
You're just another fool with radical views,
You're just another who has maddening views,
You want to turn it on its head By staying in bed !"

The reason why this verse appeals to me so much is because I feel that it sums up the actions of the general public at large. The vast majority of us a quite willing to rant on about the problems of the world and come up with all sorts of action plans in how things can be sorted out. For instance, how many of us have come up with a radical plan to solve under age drinking, lack of social integration among migrants or the slack judicial system while watching the news? But as soon as someone calls us to get off the sofa and take action on our ideas suddenly all the passion and enthusiasm dies.

In a similar light this songs reflects the famous statement made by Edmund Burke in the 18th century:

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing "

All of us are aware of the fact that we do not live in a perfect society. However, none of us are prepared to do anything about it, as that would require us to step out of our comfort zone. Thus the status quo remains, along with the injustice, inequity and prejudice in society today.

Do not get me wrong, I believe that Britain is a great place, however, it is far from perfect. It is probably the cause of our comfortable modern lives that has bred us to be lazy and not wish to do anything about the world around us. My heart often warms when I see people on top of the houses of Parliament protesting about their cause. These people have taken their beliefs and done something about it, something that should be admired. If only there were more people like that, then things could really get done in this would and we would be able to prevent prime ministers forcing European Treaties on us that none of us want and the such. It is clear that many of us care about a vast array of issues; just pop down your local pub and listen to the heated discussions taking place. But then time is called and everyone retires to their beds and, once again, nothing is done. Just imagine what could be achieved if we all took to the streets to sort this country out. However, we as a population have a long way to go, as only 3 out of 5 of us can be bothered to set aside ten minutes to cast their votes in a general election.

However, some comfort can be taken from this song. In the last line we hear Morrissey say "I know I do", making it quite clear that he is fully aware of his faults and just the same as the rest of us arm chair radicals.

Released: 1990
Album: Bona Drag