Over to You

Black Sabbath's song 'Over to You' delves into the themes of disillusionment, control, and the loss of personal agency. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a life dictated by external forces, starting from childhood. The opening lines, 'Born in the window / Cold blooded spoof / Raised in the prison / You called the school,' suggest a sense of entrapment and manipulation from a young age. The school, often a symbol of learning and growth, is depicted as a prison, indicating a system that stifles rather than nurtures.

As the song progresses, the narrator expresses a sense of aimlessness and fear of what they might discover about themselves, 'Travelling endlessly, I'm searching for mind / I'm almost afraid of what I will find.' This search for identity and meaning is overshadowed by the realization that their future has been handed over to others, symbolizing a loss of control and autonomy. The repeated refrain, 'Over to you / Future looks blue / What can I do?' underscores a sense of helplessness and resignation.

The song also touches on broader societal issues, such as war, political deceit, and the responsibilities of raising the next generation. Lines like 'Watching for freedom / Fighting our wars / Feeding our children / Keeping your laws' highlight the cyclical nature of societal expectations and the burdens placed on individuals. The mention of 'Mad politicians' and the handing over of children to these flawed systems further emphasizes the theme of disillusionment with authority and the bleak outlook for future generations. 'Over to You' is a powerful commentary on the struggles of maintaining personal freedom and integrity in a world that often demands conformity and obedience.