Shout If You Know

Mother Mother's song "Shout If You Know" delves into the frustration of endless discussions that lead nowhere. The lyrics highlight how people often talk about problems without offering solutions. The opening lines emphasize this by pointing out that while people can discuss issues at length, they rarely take action to resolve them. This sentiment is echoed in the lines about women and children, where the focus is on the disparity and suffering that are frequently talked about but seldom addressed effectively.

The chorus, "Shout if you know," serves as a call to action, urging those who understand the issues to speak up. It contrasts sharply with the verses that criticize empty rhetoric. The repetition of the word "shout" underscores the urgency and importance of vocalizing knowledge and truths. The song also suggests that if one doesn't know, they should keep moving forward, symbolized by the phrase "rock 'n roll if you don't." This implies that action, even without complete understanding, is preferable to idle chatter.

In the latter part of the song, there's a clear message to those who dominate conversations without contributing meaningfully. Phrases like "Hush up, buttercup" and "Pipe down, anchorman" are directed at individuals who talk too much without substance. The reference to "old Carthusians"—a monastic order known for their silence—suggests that sometimes, silence and contemplation are more valuable than incessant talking. The song ultimately champions the idea that knowledge should be shared loudly and clearly, while empty talk should be minimized.