My Fair Share
Paul Williams
The Quest for Fairness and Justice in 'My Fair Share'
Paul Williams' song 'My Fair Share' delves into the profound human desire for fairness, justice, and love. The opening lines, 'Lost, lost as a child's first thought / I must have arms to hold me,' evoke a sense of vulnerability and longing for comfort and security. This imagery of being lost and needing care sets the stage for the song's exploration of fairness and justice as essential elements of human existence.
The repeated use of the word 'fair' highlights its fluid and subjective nature. Williams sings, 'Fair, fair is a changing word / Fair is an honored promise,' suggesting that fairness is not a fixed concept but one that evolves and holds significant moral weight. The plea for justice, 'Justice if you're still there / I will have my fair share,' underscores a deep yearning for equity and the fulfillment of promises. This reflects a broader societal quest for justice and the hope that it remains a guiding principle.
The metaphor of justice as a lady, 'Justice is a lady / Lay me down with justice / In a long white gown,' personifies justice as pure and nurturing. The imagery of sharing a 'breath of love' with justice implies that true fairness and justice are intertwined with love and compassion. The invitation to 'sleep with me if you dare / Celebrate my fair share' challenges the listener to embrace and celebrate the pursuit of fairness, even if it requires courage and vulnerability. Through its poetic lyrics, 'My Fair Share' captures the timeless struggle for justice and the human need for love and fairness in a world that often falls short of these ideals.