No Shoes
John Lee Hooker Lyrics

The lyrics to John Lee Hooker's song "No Shoes" speak to the struggles of poverty and the difficulties faced by families who are unable to provide basic necessities for themselves and their children. The opening lines describe a situation where the singer is without food or shoes, with his children also suffering as a result. The repetition of this idea emphasizes the bleakness of his circumstances, and the fact that his children "cry for mercy" emphasizes the emotional toll that poverty can take on a family.

The chorus of the song shifts its focus to the larger societal problem of poverty and the feeling of hopelessness that can come with it. The line "hard times seem like a jealous thing" suggests that there is a sense of unfairness or resentment towards those who enjoy more comfortable circumstances. The singer acknowledges that he needs help, but also recognizes that he may not be able to survive on his own for long.

Overall, the song is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those living in poverty, and the ways in which these struggles can become entrenched and difficult to overcome. It speaks to the importance of community support and the need for a safety net to help those who are struggling to make ends meet.