Penny Farthing

Eric Donaldson's song 'Penny Farthing' delves deep into the historical and emotional scars left by slavery. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the forced displacement and suffering endured by those who were taken from their homeland. The opening lines, 'So they take kaya away / Yes they stole laya away,' immediately set a tone of loss and injustice, referring to the confiscation of land and lives. This imagery is further reinforced with references to being 'on a ship merchandising,' highlighting the dehumanizing nature of the transatlantic slave trade.

The recurring mention of 'slavery' underscores the enduring impact of this brutal history. Donaldson's use of the phrase 'From the day that I know myself on / Nothing but the slavery' suggests a life defined by oppression and struggle. Despite this, there is a sense of resilience and determination to fight against these injustices, as indicated by the lines 'And I've been doing this / From I to fight on.' This duality of suffering and resistance is a central theme in the song.

The metaphor of the 'penny farthing,' an old-fashioned bicycle, serves as a poignant symbol in the song. It represents the burdens and challenges faced by those who have been oppressed, as they navigate a 'rocky rocky road' filled with obstacles. The repeated plea for 'Penny farthing / Pay me oh pay me oh pay' can be interpreted as a call for recognition, reparations, and justice for the historical wrongs endured. Through its powerful lyrics and evocative imagery, 'Penny Farthing' not only recounts a painful past but also calls for acknowledgment and redress, making it a compelling anthem of resilience and hope.