Equals Only
The Ex Lyrics

The lyrics to The Ex's song Equals Only are a critical exploration of power dynamics and privilege. The opening line, "All men are equal," is a well-known phrase that suggests equality under the law but is contradicted by the following lines. The singer is excluded and unable to enter despite the entrance being free. This speaks to the experience of being marginalized or excluded from spaces that are seemingly open to all.

The sentiment continues with the line, "Don't lie your face, that's not a smile." This implies that someone is being disingenuous or insincere. The lyrics then take on a more confrontational tone with the line, "Keep your hands off, you don't like me." Here the singer is asserting their self-worth and refusal to allow others to treat them poorly. The line, "I'm not like you," speaks to the idea that the singer sees themselves as different or othered compared to those in power.

The final two lines of the song, "No dogs allowed, I'm this week's Jew," are particularly powerful. The reference to dogs speaks to the idea of dehumanization and comparing someone to an animal. The comparison to being "this week's Jew" is a potent criticism of the way society can turn on minority groups, whether it be religious or ethnic. Overall, the lyrics of Equals Only are a sharp critique of inequality and exclusion, highlighting the pain and indignity it can cause.