"The Needle's Eye" is a song by Gil Scott-Heron, an American singer-songwriter, poet, and activist. The lyrics of the song discuss various themes, including societal issues, freedom, understanding, and personal introspection. The song begins by describing a spinning circle that keeps getting larger and faster, symbolizing the chaotic and ever-growing world. The whirlpool represents the impending disaster faced by those who don't conform or "rhyme" with society's expectations. This could be interpreted as individuals who are ostracized or marginalized due to their differences. The lyrics mention someone who doesn't fit through the needle's eye, which could be a reference to the biblical quote "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." This line could suggest how some people struggle to understand or accept certain truths or perspectives. The song then moves on to discuss a new sense of freedom and time, suggesting that individuals can find liberation by standing alone and leaving behind hatred and fear. It highlights the wastefulness of spending money on warfare while children go hungry, emphasizing the need for change in society. The chorus reinforces the idea that some people fail to understand, emphasizing the importance of empathy and comprehension. It emphasizes the need for a new sense of freedom and time to break away from societal constraints and prejudices. Throughout the song, the lyrics touch upon people's tendency to overlook their emotions, burying them inside rather than expressing them. This serves as a critique of the societal norm of suppressing emotions and the resulting lack of genuine connection. In a personal anecdote, the narrator seeks answers from their father but is met with indifference, leading them to question the blindness and lack of understanding prevalent in the world. Ultimately, "The Needle's Eye" addresses the need for change, both on an individual and societal level, urging people to break free from societal expectations, find a new sense of freedom and understanding, and confront the hate and fear that holds them back.
