War And Crime

Lucky Dube's song 'War And Crime' is a poignant reflection on the pervasive issues of racial and tribal discrimination, war, and crime. The lyrics highlight the confusion and blame-shifting that often accompany these societal problems. Dube points out that people are quick to blame others for the world's issues—whether it's black people blaming white people, white people blaming black people, or various ethnic groups blaming each other. This cycle of blame perpetuates misunderstanding and conflict, making it difficult to discern what is truly right or wrong.

The song also touches on the generational transmission of misinformation. Dube sings about how parents have failed to tell their children the truth, leading to a perpetuation of ignorance and prejudice. This lack of truthful communication contributes to the ongoing cycle of discrimination and violence. The artist emphasizes that neither he nor the listener was present when these conflicts began, suggesting that the origins of these issues are complex and deeply rooted in history. However, he advocates for a collective effort to 'bury down apartheid' and fight against all forms of discrimination and violence.

Dube's message is not one of cowardice but of pragmatism and compassion. He underscores the senseless loss of innocent lives, particularly women and children, who are often the most affected by wars and conflicts. By urging people to focus on unity and understanding rather than division and blame, Dube calls for a more peaceful and just world. His plea is for humanity to recognize our shared history and work together to create a better future, free from the chains of past prejudices and conflicts.