Only a Pawn In Their Game

Morrissey's song 'Only a Pawn In Their Game' delves deep into the tragic assassination of civil rights activist Medgar Evers and the broader socio-political dynamics of racial manipulation in the American South. The song opens with a vivid depiction of Evers' murder, emphasizing that the assassin, though the immediate perpetrator, is merely a tool in a larger, more insidious game. This sets the stage for a broader critique of how individuals are manipulated by those in power.

The song's second verse shifts focus to the poor white man, who is systematically indoctrinated by politicians to believe in his inherent superiority over Black people. This manipulation serves the politicians' interests, allowing them to rise to power while the poor white man remains marginalized. Morrissey highlights the irony and tragedy of this situation, showing how the poor white man is kept in a state of ignorance and hatred, unable to see the true source of his plight.

In the third verse, Morrissey expands on the theme of manipulation, describing how various authority figures, from sheriffs to governors, exploit the poor white man. He is taught from a young age to uphold laws that protect his white skin, fostering a deep-seated hatred that blinds him to his own suffering. The imagery of the poor white man as a 'dog on a chain' underscores his lack of agency and the dehumanizing effects of this manipulation.

The song concludes with a poignant reflection on Medgar Evers' burial and the fate of his assassin. Morrissey suggests that the true tragedy lies not just in the loss of Evers, but in the perpetuation of a system that turns individuals into pawns. The assassin's epitaph, 'Only a pawn in their game,' serves as a stark reminder of the broader forces at play and the need for systemic change.