Shame

Glen Alfred's song 'Shame' delves into the theme of hypocrisy and the emotional toll it takes on those who are affected by it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is known for both their silence and their outspoken nature, suggesting a duality in their character. This person seems to play a game with their words and actions, making promises that they fail to keep. The line 'You made a deal with heaven, They've seen the gates of hell' implies a moral or spiritual conflict, where the person in question has perhaps promised righteousness but delivered suffering instead.

The chorus, 'It's such a shame, You're still to the same,' underscores the disappointment and frustration felt by those who have been let down. This repetition emphasizes the stagnation and lack of change in the person's behavior, despite the expectations and hopes of others. The imagery of 'feasting on milk and honey' while others 'thirst for happiness' highlights the disparity between the person's outward appearance of success and the inner emptiness or struggle of those around them. This contrast serves to criticize the superficiality and selfishness of the person being addressed.

The song also touches on the theme of loneliness and the search for belonging. The line 'Yet they're all alone, in a search for a home' suggests that the promises and appearances of the hypocritical figure have left others feeling isolated and unfulfilled. This emotional depth adds a layer of poignancy to the song, making it not just a critique of hypocrisy but also a lament for the emotional damage it causes. Glen Alfred's poignant lyrics and evocative imagery make 'Shame' a powerful commentary on the consequences of broken promises and unfulfilled expectations.