Enough Is Enough (Kick It Over)

Chumbawamba's song "Enough Is Enough (Kick It Over)" is a powerful anthem that calls for resistance against fascism and authoritarianism. The repeated chorus, "Open your eyes, time to wake up, enough is enough," serves as a wake-up call to listeners, urging them to recognize and confront the resurgence of fascist ideologies. The song's urgency is palpable, emphasizing that complacency is not an option in the face of such threats.

The lyrics reference historical and contemporary contexts, such as Vienna under heavy manners, to illustrate how fascism can subtly infiltrate societies. The line "The Nazis changed but they never went away" highlights the persistence of these dangerous ideologies, even if they appear in different forms. Chumbawamba warns against being deceived by superficial changes, like smoother words and nicer suits, which can mask the true nature of authoritarianism. The song's call to "give the fascist man a gunshot" is a metaphor for taking decisive action against these oppressive forces.

The song also critiques the apathy and disillusionment that can arise over time. Lines like "We got bored and tired, it wasn't hip anymore" and "How many of us does it take to change a light-bulb? Answer: it's easier to stay in the dark" reflect a sense of frustration with the lack of sustained activism. Chumbawamba challenges listeners to remember the importance of anti-fascist movements and to "kick it over," a phrase that symbolizes disrupting and dismantling fascist structures. The repeated question, "Where have all the anti-fascists gone?" serves as a poignant reminder of the need for continued vigilance and action.