"The Selfishness of Man" by George Jones is a song that reflects on the selfishness and lack of understanding among human beings. The song starts by describing a beautiful moment where the narrator witnesses a beam of sunlight crossing the sky and kissing a rose bud. This sight moves the narrator to tears, highlighting the appreciation for nature and its perfection. However, the song takes a darker turn as it contrasts this beauty with the selfishness found in humanity. The lyrics suggest that despite being privileged to witness the wonders of nature, people often fail to appreciate and understand them. Instead, they focus on their own desires and interests, displaying selfishness. The song specifically mentions children painting pictures of flowers and apple trees, representing innocence and purity. It questions why adults cannot have the same faith, innocence, and purity as children. The lyrics imply that as people grow older, they often lose touch with their compassion and become callous and self-centered. The song also hints at the potential danger within human beings. It suggests that the same tiny hands that innocently paint pictures could grow up to become killers, emphasizing the notion that selfishness can lead to negative and harmful actions. In the chorus, the lyrics express the desire for people to recognize the folly and uselessness of pain caused by self-centeredness. The idea is that love and understanding would lead to a better world, and it is not too late to change. The song concludes by expressing hope that with greater wisdom and understanding, humans can overcome their self-centeredness. It suggests that through enlightenment, there could be a world free of shame, sorrow, and selfishness. Overall, "The Selfishness of Man" by George Jones is a song that highlights the contrast between the beauty of nature and the selfishness found within humanity. It urges people to reflect on their actions, seek understanding, and embrace love to create a world without selfishness.
