Power And The Glory

Cockney Rejects' song "Power And The Glory" delves into the harsh realities and sacrifices of war, particularly from the viewpoint of the working class. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of ordinary men being sent off to fight, often under the guise of restoring national pride. These men, described as 'blokes like me & you,' are portrayed as pawns in a larger game, manipulated by those in power who remain detached from the actual suffering and loss. The song criticizes the notion that it is a 'privilege' to die for one's country, highlighting the disconnect between the ruling class and the common people.

The chorus emphasizes the themes of power, glory, and the heavy price paid by the soldiers who lost their lives. The repetition of 'The power and the glory, The power and the pride' juxtaposed with 'The only price that we have paid, Was for our boys who died' underscores the futility and tragedy of war. The song suggests that the true cost of war is borne by the working class, who are often the ones sent to fight and die, while the 'fatman'—a metaphor for the ruling elite—remains unscathed and even benefits from the conflict.

The lyrics also touch on historical events, such as World War II, and the enduring impact of war on families and communities. The reference to 'the bombs they flew, Through world war ii' and 'the working class got up his ass, And curse the ones that lied' reflects a sense of betrayal and disillusionment. The song calls for a rise against the injustices faced by the working class, suggesting that despite the pain and loss, there is hope for a better future. The Cockney Rejects use their punk rock roots to deliver a powerful message about the human cost of war and the resilience of the working class.