Shoes
F.O.M. Lyrics

The lyrics of F.O.M.'s song "Shoes" address the frustration of a working-class individual who feels silenced and disregarded by the political system. The first verse is a scathing comment on how the notion of equal rights often fails to translate into real-life circumstances. Quotas, meant to ensure representation of marginalized groups, can be ineffective when they don't address the underlying systemic issues that exclude certain communities. The line "income rape" refers to the economic exploitation and poverty that affect many individuals, especially people of color and women. The lack of representation and advocacy creates an ethical crisis when people are denied the basic right to work and provide for their families.

The second verse highlights the personal effort and hard work that are often overlooked by the liberal elites who claim to represent the working class. The singer rejects the idea of handouts or entitlements and emphasizes the value of self-reliance and individual responsibility. He resents being labeled as uneducated or ignorant because of his political views and argues that the so-called "liberal insight" is often patronizing and hypocritical. He concludes by inviting the listener to "walk in his shoes," suggesting that only by experiencing firsthand the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people can we truly understand and address social inequality.

Overall, the song presents a critique of the liberal establishment and its failure to address the needs and aspirations of the working class. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment and resentment towards a system that promises equality but fails to deliver it in practice. The song's title, "Shoes," underscores the importance of empathy and perspective-taking in understanding the impact of political decisions on people's lives.