Hoofprints In The Sand
Sage Francis Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

(feat. Scratches by Reanimator)

I've seen a monkey evolve into a man
I've seen a man devolve into a monkey
I've seen a junkie redeem himself with help
I've seen a wealthy man melt into the snow and blow his credit on a decongestant
The dyslexics breathe easy
The people in the top tax bracket just keep looking for freebies
Thumbing their noses at those in need of handouts
I'm talkin' panhandlers with secondhand clothes, living hand to mouth
Camping out on Capitol Hill
The fat cats are still insisting reparations be a jagged little pill
Today there's free vaccinations at the walk-in clinic
If you're lucky, you won't just be a guinea pig
Call me a cynic
I find it interesting how certain epidemics spread
More specifically – where they don't and who isn't affected
Yeah, I'm infected with a curious nature
The welcome mat said, "God bless this home," not "God damn thy neighbor"
They can repeat history but can't recycle paper
They don't see the forest or the trees, just skyscrapers
Towels of Babel in a town full of cattle
When I question brand loyalty, the crowd is bedazzled
But I'll never be hoodwinked, I'm mindful of the footprints
The shape of the hoof, the way the path in the wood splits
The author of the book, the origin of the crucifix
The waitress looking for tips and the place where the cook spits
This is where I was when the bomb dropped
Hiding from the uninvited onslaught
I've seen people who don't believe in sleep count sheep
With calculators that double as alarm clocks
From Noah's Ark all the way to Rosa Parks
To black folk pushing white agendas inside of an office with flow charts
Technology ain't shit, we feed off the fruit
When I stuff leaves of absence in my briefcase, follow suit
Spill the liquid from your double fisted escapade
Kill kids with the drunken misfits in your Escalade
It's gruel for the food fight and foreign aid
Bream ‘em down and build ‘em back up with what you throw away
Administering band aids on amputated limbs
Kissing ‘em with air raids, and your lips gave ‘em infections
Too many closed doors led to back drafts
Now the spring edition of fashion catalogues feature gasmasks
How becoming on these lanky models
They can't look truth in the mirror without a pair of safety goggles
Hold the bobble head, insert the feeding tube
Even if they stop breathing, make sure they keep eating food
Do the Schiavo
Mouth opened wide like a perverse psycho circus side show
Forgive me not, my patterns stay impartial to apologies
Despite a polite side of mine that says, "I'm so sorry"
Adding flame infinitum for your eternal fuel tank
My higher power doesn't need to be thanked
Thanks anyway, that's from him to me to you
I don't mind being the middle man, someday I might need one, too

I'm at the fire
Where are you?
I'm at the fire
Where the hell are you?

I've seen a man devolve into a monkey
I've seen a monkey evolve into a man
I've seen it all, upside down, in-between, inside out
It's neither here nor there, hoofprints in the sand
I've fallen head first into the pit of my stomach
Taught to trust my gut, got no trust in the gutless
Save some hope for the hopeless, but I won't show it
Shoot my load in an opus, now it's an open casket
Going to Hades in a hand basket
Holding onto a dream, but lately we can't grasp it
There's been too much murder and not enough martyr
Why is it no one else wants to impress Jodie Foster?

[x3:]
I'm at the fire
We're at the fire
Where are you? Where are you?

You can't have revolution without evolution, huh?
You can't have evolution without velution, huh?
You can't have velution without elution, huh?
You can't have elution without lution, huh?
You can't have lution without ution, huh?
You can't have ution without tion, huh?
You can't have tion without ion, huh?
You can't have ion without on, huh?
You can't have on without n, huh?

Seriously I know that you pray when the chips are down
But act different when there are atheists around
Have suspicions that make you think you'll drown
All alone in the middle of a crowd
I'd be a liar if I said I never had to beg
Doubled over with my knees bent touching my head
Stuck in a bed, dealing with all of these evil visions
Running from the dead in a fetal position
Needing assistance from a nurse
She said, "Tell me where it hurts"
These words are gonna make my belly burst
So I mentally revert to all the enemies I've cursed
Running through my memories in reverse
I said bring that beat back, man, bring that beat back
A flash ain't enough time for me to recap
I'm a bastard sometimes, don't think I don't see that
Laughing at the dumb, blind, the deaf to the knee slaps
Cracking punch lines for the sake of some green stacks
Passion for the rhyme can be cheapened by feedback
I shut my eyes and proceed to go dream catch
But a troubled mind can't seem to fall asleep fast




I cut my ties like the way that a fiend acts
Go into overdrive and get caught in a speed trap

Overall Meaning

In Sage Francis's song Hoofprints In The Sand, the lyrics convey a sense of disillusionment with society and its values. Through its vivid imagery and metaphors, the song is a commentary on everything from the rich ignoring the poor to the epidemic that doesn't affect certain people. The lyrics speak to themes such as evolution, corruption, faith and hopelessness.


Line by Line Meaning

I've seen a monkey evolve into a man
I have witnessed growth and development in individuals, where they have transformed from a less advanced state to a more refined one.


I've seen a man devolve into a monkey
Conversely, I have also witnessed individuals regress and decline morally, reverting to more primitive behaviors.


I've seen a junkie redeem himself with help
I have observed individuals struggling with addiction find salvation and improve their lives with support and assistance.


I've seen a wealthy man melt into the snow and blow his credit on a decongestant
Even those who possess wealth and privilege are not immune to poor decision-making, as I have seen a rich individual waste their money foolishly on worthless items.


The dyslexics breathe easy
People with dyslexia find relief and respite in certain situations.


The people in the top tax bracket just keep looking for freebies
Individuals with the highest income continue to seek ways to benefit without contributing their fair share in taxes.


Thumbing their noses at those in need of handouts
They proudly disrespect and disregard those who require assistance.


I'm talking' panhandlers with secondhand clothes, living hand to mouth
I am referring to impoverished individuals forced to seek help from others while barely managing to fulfill their basic needs.


Camping out on Capitol Hill
Metaphorically, this depicts the struggles of the disadvantaged people who are forced to raise awareness of their plight in the presence of powerful decision-makers.


The fat cats are still insisting reparations be a jagged little pill
The wealthy elite continue to avoid taking responsibility for their societal debts, as they perceive reparations as a bitter burden they are unwilling to embrace.


Today there's free vaccinations at the walk-in clinic
Currently, there is an opportunity to receive vaccines without charge at a healthcare facility, promoting public health.


If you're lucky, you won't just be a guinea pig
However, it is essential to exercise caution as there is a risk of being used as an experimental subject.


Call me a cynic
Refer to me as a skeptic who questions prevailing beliefs and attitudes.


I find it interesting how certain epidemics spread
I am intrigued by the selective nature of how widespread health crises propagate.


More specifically – where they don't and who isn't affected
Particularly, I am interested in discerning the regions or demographics that remain unaffected by these epidemics.


Yeah, I'm infected with a curious nature
Indeed, my mind is captivated by an insatiable appetite for knowledge and understanding.


The welcome mat said, "God bless this home," not "God damn thy neighbor"
Our houses should promote goodwill and compassion towards others, rather than fostering animosity or hostility.


They can repeat history but can't recycle paper
While people can learn from past events, they often disregard the importance of environmentally friendly practices.


They don't see the forest or the trees, just skyscrapers
Many individuals fail to appreciate the natural world and are solely preoccupied with urban infrastructure and economic growth.


Towels of Babel in a town full of cattle
Society is overwhelmed by the noise and confusion created by a multitude of voices, rendering it difficult to communicate effectively.


When I question brand loyalty, the crowd is bedazzled
I often encounter surprise and confusion from others when I scrutinize the unwavering loyalty individuals place on certain brands.


But I'll never be hoodwinked, I'm mindful of the footprints
Nevertheless, I always remain vigilant and aware, paying close attention to the traces and imprints left behind by others.


The shape of the hoof, the way the path in the wood splits
In particular, I analyze the characteristics of a hoof's shape and how trails diverge within the forest.


The author of the book, the origin of the crucifix
From dissecting the intentions of an author to unraveling the historical significance of the crucifix, I delve into profound contemplation.


The waitress looking for tips and the place where the cook spits
I am attentive to the struggles faced by a waitress reliant on gratuities and the unpleasant conditions experienced in the kitchen.


This is where I was when the bomb dropped
I recall the exact location I occupied during a catastrophic event like the detonation of a bomb.


Hiding from the uninvited onslaught
Engaged in the act of seeking refuge, shielding myself from an unforeseen force that arrived without invitation.


I've seen people who don't believe in sleep count sheep
Interestingly, I have observed individuals who do not acknowledge the importance of rest resort to alternative methods to induce slumber.


With calculators that double as alarm clocks
Moreover, these individuals utilize calculators that can also function as devices to wake them up at specific times.


From Noah's Ark all the way to Rosa Parks
Spanning a considerable range in history, from the biblical tale of Noah's Ark to the impactful actions of Rosa Parks.


To black folk pushing white agendas inside of an office with flow charts
Illustrating a contrasting scenario, where black individuals, acting as representatives of white interests, operate within bureaucratic settings employing organizational diagrams.


Technology ain't shit, we feed off the fruit
Despite our reliance on technology, its significance and impact are relatively insignificant compared to our fundamentals and primal needs.


When I stuff leaves of absence in my briefcase, follow suit
As I pack reminders of nature's temporary absence into my briefcase, I encourage others to adopt a similar practice.


Spill the liquid from your double fisted escapade
Metaphorically, release the contents of the beverages held in both your hands, symbolizing indulgence and reckless abandon.


Kill kids with the drunken misfits in your Escalade
Recklessly endanger the lives of children by driving under the influence of alcohol alongside irresponsible companions in an Escalade vehicle.


It's gruel for the food fight and foreign aid
This behavior perpetuates conflict and suffering, both domestically and in the context of international assistance and relief efforts.


Bream 'em down and build 'em back up with what you throw away
Tear down individuals and their worth, only to attempt reconstruction using discarded and undervalued resources.


Administering band aids on amputated limbs
Attempting to provide superficial solutions or temporary relief to deeply entrenched problems.


Kissing 'em with air raids, and your lips gave 'em infections
Rather than offering genuine care and assistance, these actions create further harm and perpetuate negative consequences.


Too many closed doors led to back drafts
Acts of exclusion have resulted in negative repercussions, manifesting as draft-like consequences reversing the intended effects.


Now the spring edition of fashion catalogues feature gas masks
This season's fashion catalogs showcase the incorporation of gas masks, symbolizing the pervasive influence of fear and uncertainty.


How becoming on these lanky models
Ironically, these tall and slender models portray a twisted beauty in the face of impending catastrophe.


They can't look truth in the mirror without a pair of safety goggles
These individuals are incapable of confronting reality unless they shield themselves with protective gear, metaphorically representing their avoidance tactics.


Hold the bobble head, insert the feeding tube
Keep control of the mindless followers, encouraging their dependency by providing sustenance.


Even if they stop breathing, make sure they keep eating food
Even if they no longer possess vitality or critical thinking, ensure they continue to consume mindlessly, perpetuating their state of complacency.


Do the Schiavo
Referencing the controversial case of Terri Schiavo, whose life support was terminated, symbolizing a lack of compassion and ethical considerations.


Mouth opened wide like a perverse psycho circus sideshow
Presenting a spectacle characterized by distorted and perverse acts, with individuals exhibiting shockingly wide-mouthed expressions akin to a circus sideshow.


Forgive me not, my patterns stay impartial to apologies
I lack forgiveness as my behaviors and tendencies remain unaffected by the apologies offered by others.


Despite a polite side of mine that says, "I'm so sorry"
Although there is a part of me that expresses civility and remorse through apologies, it does not guarantee absolution.


Adding flame infinitum for your eternal fuel tank
Continuously igniting and fueling the fire within your soul, providing infinite energy and passion.


My higher power doesn't need to be thanked
I recognize that the source of my inspiration and strength does not require expressions of gratitude.


Thanks anyway, that's from him to me to you
Nevertheless, I extend my appreciation for the blessings bestowed upon me, serving as a conduit to convey those thanks.


I don't mind being the middle man, someday I might need one, too
I willingly serve as an intermediary, facilitating communication and assistance between parties, as I acknowledge that I may require such support in the future as well.


I'm at the fire
Currently, I am present and engaged in a situation that demands my attention and action.


Where are you?
However, I wonder about your whereabouts and why you are not participating or contributing to this crucial moment.


I've seen it all, upside down, in-between, inside out
I have experienced a comprehensive range of situations and perspectives, including the unconventional, ambiguous, and even contradictory.


It's neither here nor there, hoofprints in the sand
The situation, concept, or event lacks a clear categorization or definition, remaining ambiguous and open to interpretation, just like hoofprints left in the sand.


I've fallen head first into the pit of my stomach
I have metaphorically descended into the depths of my own thoughts and emotions, engrossed in self-reflection and introspection.


Taught to trust my gut, got no trust in the gutless
I have learned to rely on my instincts but possess no confidence in individuals who lack courage and conviction.


Save some hope for the hopeless, but I won't show it
Exemplifying empathy and compassion, I reserve a glimmer of optimism for those who appear beyond salvation, even though I may not openly express it.


Shoot my load in an opus, now it's an open casket
Metaphorically, I pour my creative energy into a masterpiece, ultimately transforming it into a profound tribute or memorial.


Going to Hades in a hand basket
Heading towards destruction or chaos in a swift and effortless manner, as if being carried to the underworld.


Holding onto a dream, but lately we can't grasp it
Despite our desire to cling to our aspirations, it seems increasingly difficult to seize and realize them in our current circumstances.


There's been too much murder and not enough martyr
The prevalence of senseless killings and inadequate sacrifice for a noble cause has created an imbalance within society.


Why is it no one else wants to impress Jodie Foster?
Curiously, I observe how it appears that nobody else desires to make a lasting impact or leave a significant impression on influential figures like Jodie Foster.


You can't have revolution without evolution, huh?
I express a rhetorical statement highlighting the interconnectedness of transformative social change and progressive development.


You can't have evolution without velution, huh?
Similarly, I assert that progress and advancement require an element of rebellion and defiance against established norms.


You can't have velution without elution, huh?
In addition, the process of change necessitates purification and the removal of unwanted elements or ideas.


You can't have elution without lution, huh?
Furthermore, purification requires a method or strategy to separate undesirable aspects from the desirable ones.


You can't have lution without ution, huh?
In turn, this process of purification is dependent on organization and systematic action.


You can't have ution without tion, huh?
Continuing the chain of dependencies, achieving systematic progress relies on the implementation of specific actions and steps.


You can't have tion without ion, huh?
Finally, the execution of action necessitates a state of being or the presence of certain conditions.


You can't have ion without on, huh?
Ultimately, the desired outcome can only materialize with tangible and active engagement.


You can't have on without n, huh?
The necessary course of action requires an initial spark or instigation.


Seriously I know that you pray when the chips are down
I am aware that individuals often turn to prayer and seek solace when facing adversity or challenging circumstances.


But act different when there are atheists around
However, their behavior and attitudes change when in the presence of non-believers, perhaps due to social pressures or a desire for conformity.


Have suspicions that make you think you'll drown
They harbor doubts and concerns that create a sense of impending doom or suffocation.


All alone in the middle of a crowd
Despite being surrounded by people, they experience a profound sense of isolation and loneliness.


I'd be a liar if I said I never had to beg
In all honesty, I have been in situations where I had to humbly request assistance or plead for something.


Doubled over with my knees bent touching my head
The act of bending forward, folding in half, brings my knees into contact with my head, conveying the intensity of my desperation and distress.


Stuck in a bed, dealing with all of these evil visions
Trapped within a confined space, I confront distressing or disturbing images and thoughts that torment my mind.


Running from the dead in a fetal position
Metaphorically, I am evading the burdens or haunting memories of the past by curling up in a protective posture reminiscent of being in the womb.


Needing assistance from a nurse
Requiring the aid and support provided by a healthcare professional, specifically a nurse.


She said, "Tell me where it hurts"
Seeking understanding and empathy, the nurse inquired about the specific source of my pain or distress.


These words are gonna make my belly burst
Metaphorically, the impact of these words will cause an overwhelming surge of emotions within me, as if my stomach is about to rupture.


So I mentally revert to all the enemies I've cursed
In response, my thoughts involuntarily return to the individuals I have condemned or expressed hostility towards in the past.


Running through my memories in reverse
Reflectively, I traverse backwards in time, mentally revisiting my past experiences and recollections.


I said bring that beat back, man, bring that beat back
Expressing a desire to rewind and replay the musical composition, urging the DJ or producer to repeat the captivating rhythm.


A flash ain't enough time for me to recap
A fleeting momentary glimpse into the past is insufficient for me to summarize or recount the entirety of my experiences.


I'm a bastard sometimes, don't think I don't see that
Admitting my flaws and acknowledging that there are instances where I behave in a less desirable manner, without deluding myself about it.


Laughing at the dumb, blind, the deaf to the knee slaps
Finding amusement in the ignorance and obliviousness of those who are oblivious or refuse to acknowledge obvious truths, to the point of hilarity.


Cracking punch lines for the sake of some green stacks
Creating clever and humorous remarks solely to obtain monetary gain or financial success.


Passion for the rhyme can be cheapened by feedback
The intensity and enthusiasm for creating poetic verses can be devalued or undermined by the opinions and responses received from others.


I shut my eyes and proceed to go dream catch
Intentionally closing my eyes to embark on a journey of capturing and manifesting my dreams.


But a troubled mind can't seem to fall asleep fast
However, a restless and disturbed mind struggles to quickly succumb to sleep and find tranquility.


I cut my ties like the way that a fiend acts
Similar to the behavior of a desperate addict, I sever my connections abruptly and without hesitation.


Go into overdrive and get caught in a speed trap
Engaging in excessive and frantic action that leads to a metaphorical trap or hindrance.




Contributed by Chloe V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

DiLL590

Thank you for sharing this masterpiece and the accompanying lyrics!

matt dinsmore

Three things, Mike: 1) For no reason? Are you sure you've heard the song? Try again, but this time take note of exactly when the image changes to the guy with the gun. 2) Again--the other versions posted were incomplete, so I posted this complete version. 3) The face-palm you inspire is the same one that inspired the creation of the most excellent Comment Blocker app for Chrome, for which the link can now be found in the video's description.

Equal Charlie

So, a few of years ago...

Sage made a remix of this song while walking through the Occupy Boston movement, the same one that took over many parts of the world for a month or so. What do I have to do to find that version of this song again? The video has long since been made private, if not removed altogether.

Any help is appreciated.

Bornyesterday

Wow, this has a different meaning in 2021: "Free vacations at the walk in clinic. If you're lucky, you just be a guinea pig." Call me a cynic. I find it interesting where certain epidemics spread. More specifically, where they don't. And who isn't infected."
Take a bow Mr Francis.

Brendan Lucero

Right? i remember listening to this back in 2007 when i was around 17 hears old. shit was fire back then. But these lyrics haven't aged a day. Especially relevant for todays times

Adam Andrews

I'm at the fire, where are you?

Burak Fatih Kılıç

no.1 <3

Efe

Yasiyon mu dayi

Eric Killian

Great

Butimar

Gözümü boyamışlar hepsi makyaj

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