Long Long Way To Go

Phil Collins' song 'Long Long Way To Go' is a poignant reflection on the persistent issues of violence, suffering, and societal indifference. The lyrics paint a stark contrast between the mundane activities of daily life and the harsh realities faced by others. As Collins sits and contemplates, he is acutely aware of the tragedies occurring elsewhere—someone bleeding in a field, a son dead in a gutter, and a loved one’s heart stopping in the street. These vivid images highlight the ongoing struggles and the long journey humanity still has to undertake to achieve peace and justice.

The recurring line, 'we've still got a long long way to go,' serves as a powerful reminder of the distance yet to be covered in addressing these issues. Collins expresses a sense of frustration and helplessness, encapsulated in the line, 'I can't take it anymore.' This sentiment is further emphasized by the chorus, which suggests a common coping mechanism: turning off the news or looking away to avoid confronting these harsh realities. The repetition of 'turn it off' and 'switch it off' underscores the ease with which people can disconnect from the world's problems, highlighting a broader societal tendency to ignore uncomfortable truths.

Phil Collins, known for his emotive voice and socially conscious lyrics, uses this song to call attention to the need for empathy and action. The song's message is clear: despite the progress made, there is still much work to be done. It challenges listeners to remain aware and engaged, rather than turning a blind eye to the suffering around them. By juxtaposing personal comfort with global pain, Collins urges a collective awakening to the ongoing injustices that plague society.