School

Roger Hodgson's song "School" delves into the pressures and expectations placed on young individuals by society, particularly through the lens of the educational system. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a child's daily routine, starting with the morning rush to school, where they are reminded to adhere to the 'golden rule' and emulate the model student, Johnnie. This character represents the ideal that children are often pressured to live up to, embodying the societal expectations of diligence and conformity.

The song transitions to the post-school hours, where the child is still under the watchful eye of authority figures, who caution against staying out too late and encourage learning life's lessons in a controlled manner. This reflects the broader societal tendency to mold young minds into a predetermined path, often stifling their natural curiosity and individuality. The repeated admonitions of 'don't do this and don't do that' highlight the restrictive nature of these expectations, suggesting a lack of understanding or empathy from the older generation.

Hodgson's lyrics also touch on the internal conflict experienced by the youth, who are full of doubt and struggle to reconcile their own desires with the imposed norms. The song's narrator questions whether it is reasonable to expect the young to fight against these pressures or if it is a futile endeavor. Ultimately, the message is one of empowerment, emphasizing that it is always up to the individual to choose their path. The repeated phrase 'you're coming along' serves as a reminder that personal growth and self-discovery are ongoing processes, and it is up to each person to decide how they want to navigate their journey.