Five More Years

The 4-Skins' song "Five More Years" is a raw and unapologetic expression of disillusionment with the socio-economic system. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a group of individuals who have chosen to reject the conventional path of employment and societal expectations. Instead, they embrace a lifestyle of unemployment, or being 'on the dole,' with a sense of pride and defiance. The repeated refrain, "We're on the dole and we're proud of it," underscores their rejection of societal norms and their readiness to continue this lifestyle for another five years.

The song critiques the lack of opportunities and the perceived futility of seeking employment in a system that seems rigged against them. Lines like "Who wants to work when the cash ain't there" and "Who wants a job when there's nothing about" highlight the frustration and hopelessness felt by those who see no viable path to financial stability. This sentiment is further emphasized by their disdain for the privileged few and the political and economic structures that perpetuate their struggles.

Moreover, the song takes aim at politicians, unions, and other societal institutions, blaming them for the redundancies and strikes that contribute to their plight. The sarcastic cheers to the government and unions reflect a deep-seated anger and a sense of betrayal. The 4-Skins use their music to voice the frustrations of a marginalized group, turning their discontent into a powerful anthem of resistance. The song's raw energy and unapologetic lyrics capture the essence of a subculture that refuses to conform and instead finds solidarity in their shared experiences of unemployment and societal rejection.