Feel No Pain

Sade's song 'Feel No Pain' poignantly addresses the harsh realities of unemployment and its emotional toll on individuals and families. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a family grappling with joblessness, with the mother, father, and brother all laid off and unable to find work. This situation is not just a personal tragedy but a societal issue, as the song suggests that widespread unemployment can lead to a collective sense of despair and hopelessness, symbolized by 'listening to the blues.'

The song calls for empathy and action, urging listeners to help those affected by unemployment to 'strive,' 'move on,' and 'have some future.' Sade emphasizes the importance of community support in helping individuals regain their dignity and purpose. The repeated plea to not let them 'stay home and listen to the blues' underscores the need for proactive measures to prevent the emotional and psychological decline that can accompany prolonged joblessness.

Sade also touches on the broader social implications of unemployment, warning that if society does not address these issues, the consequences will be felt by everyone. The lyrics 'It's gonna come back on everyone if you don't make them dance' suggest that societal neglect can lead to widespread social unrest and a breakdown of community cohesion. The song's haunting refrain, 'There's nothing sacred, breathing hatred,' serves as a stark reminder of the emotional and moral degradation that can result from systemic neglect and inequality.

The song concludes with a powerful image of a man breaking down, a metaphor for the breaking point that many reach when faced with insurmountable challenges. This image serves as a call to action, urging society to recognize and address the root causes of such despair to prevent further emotional and social disintegration.