"A Proper Fool" is a song by Gilbert O'Sullivan, a British-Irish singer-songwriter. Released in 1980, the song touches upon various themes such as love, justice, and societal perceptions. The lyrics depict the protagonist's failed attempts to find someone who understands him or can alleviate his pain. He feels like a fool for not finding the support he needs. The lines "I couldn't get nobody to stand de-liver" and "I couldn't get nobody to sit the pain" emphasize his disappointment in not finding someone who can empathize with him. The song also highlights the unjust nature of the world. The lines "Everyone's a winner now, no-one is denied" and "Try telling that to civilians who have died" suggest that the idea of everyone being equal and winners is far from reality. The songwriter implies that justice is not blind and that certain individuals receive more punishment than others for similar offenses. The lyrics also touch upon the notion of societal hypocrisy. The lines "Kill somebody with your car, end up being fined" and "Kill somebody in it though, and you'll get put away" highlight the songwriter's observation that if someone accidentally kills another person, they may face lesser consequences compared to someone who intentionally causes harm. Overall, the song presents a critical view of society and raises questions about justice, empathy, and the authenticity of societal ideals. It reflects the songwriter's perspective on these issues, portraying himself as a "proper fool" for not conforming to societal expectations and for his observations about the world around him.
