TALKING ABOUT A REVOLUTION
Tracy Chapman Lyrics


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Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in the unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

Poor people gonna rise up
And get their share
Poor people gonna rise up
And take what's theirs

Don't you know
You better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run
Oh I said you better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run

Cause finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' bout a revolution

Yes finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' bout a revolution oh no
Talkin' bout a revolution oh no

While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in the unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

And finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' bout a revolution

Yes finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' bout a revolution oh no




Talkin' bout a revolution oh no
Talkin' bout a revolution oh no

Overall Meaning

Tracy Chapman's song "Talking About A Revolution" is a powerful social commentary on poverty and the struggle of the working class to rise above their circumstances. The song has a sense of urgency, as though the revolution is happening right now and we all need to take notice. The lyrics describe people standing in welfare lines, crying at the doorsteps of armies of salvation, waiting in unemployment lines, and sitting around waiting for a promotion. These people are tired of waiting and are ready to take matters into their own hands. The chorus repeats the phrase "Don't you know, they're talking about a revolution, it sounds like a whisper", which suggests that the revolution is already happening, but it may not be visible to everyone.


The verses of the song describe the struggles of poor people, who are tired of waiting for someone to help them. The phrase "poor people gonna rise up and take what's theirs" suggests that they have had enough and are ready to fight for their rights. The repetition of "run, run, run" in the bridge suggests that the revolution is coming and people need to prepare for it. Finally, the lines "and finally the tables are starting to turn, talking 'bout a revolution" suggest that change is already happening, and it's only a matter of time before the revolution is complete.


The song "Talking About A Revolution" is a powerful anthem for anyone who feels disenfranchised or marginalized. It is a call to action, urging people to stand up and fight for their rights. Tracy Chapman's use of simple, yet powerful language, and her emotional delivery make this song a timeless classic that is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released in 1988.


Line by Line Meaning

Don't you know
Are you aware?


They're talkin' about a revolution
There is talk of a revolution


It sounds like a whisper
The talk is not widespread and seems secretive


While they're standing in the welfare lines
While people wait in line for government assistance


Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Begging for help from charities


Wasting time in the unemployment lines
People are waiting for unemployment benefits


Sitting around waiting for a promotion
People are waiting to advance in their jobs


Poor people gonna rise up
Impoverished individuals will come together and stand up for their rights


And get their share
They will demand a fair share of resources


And take what's theirs
They will take back what they believe is rightfully theirs


You better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run
You should flee now in fear


Cause finally the tables are starting to turn
The power dynamic is changing


Talkin' bout a revolution
We are discussing a revolution


Yes finally the tables are starting to turn
The balance of power is shifting


Talkin' bout a revolution oh no
We are talking about a revolution with both hope and apprehension




Contributed by John P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

@leokimvideo

A one in a billion voice

@seylnylp8083

One in a billion voice, indeed! Miss her a lot

@nwakaegookeke445

You damn right — and you know it

@louisenesselaar606

You can say That!

@nicholaprincealves6

I NICHOLA BERNADETTE PRINCE ALVES...AGREES WHOLE HEARTEDLY WITH YOU 💯 %

@nicholaprincealves6

YES ❤️....LOVE HER VOICE.....

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@teegee9330

She doesn't even need a guitar, she could hold that entire stadium in the palm of her hands with her voice alone.

@sblumenstein6688

Unlike the annoying, shiny circus clown, Ms. Cyrus.

@dikeledihlabangane3854

Beautiful voice of a story teller of all times pure gift❤

@Asdf-2

You ain't wrong

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