Food For Though

UB40's 'Food For Thought' is a poignant and powerful song that delves into themes of poverty, famine, and political neglect. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of suffering and despair, symbolized by the 'Ivory Madonna' who is 'dying in the dust.' This image evokes a sense of hopelessness and abandonment, as she waits for 'manna coming from the west,' a metaphor for aid or salvation that never arrives. The 'barren bosom' and 'empty eyes' further emphasize the desolation and the inevitability of death, described as a 'certain harvest scattered from the skies.'

The song also critiques the political landscape, highlighting the indifference and self-serving nature of politicians. The line 'Politicians argue sharpening their knives, drawing up their bargains, trading baby lives' is a stark condemnation of how political decisions often come at the expense of the most vulnerable. The 'skin and bones' creeping, unaware of his own death, represents the countless lives lost to famine and neglect, while 'ancient eyes peeping from his infant head' suggests a tragic wisdom born from suffering.

In the final verse, the song juxtaposes the grim reality with the festive season of Christmas. The bells ringing and angels singing about the birth of Jesus serve as a stark contrast to the ongoing suffering. This contrast underscores the irony and hypocrisy of celebrating joy and abundance while ignoring the plight of those in need. The song calls for a deeper reflection on societal values and the true meaning of compassion and justice, urging listeners to look beyond superficial celebrations and address the root causes of suffering.