The lyrics of Gilbert O'Sullivan's song "Everybody Knows" speak about the narrator's ignorance and refusal to conform to societal beliefs and norms. The narrator expresses disbelief in the widely accepted notion that the world is round, indicating their skepticism towards commonly held truths. They feel they haven't been informed or convinced about the shape of the world, so they question why they should be forced to believe it. The lyrics then transition to a more literal interpretation, where the narrator discusses the shoes they wear. They claim that their shoes are incompatible or misfitting, unable to find a pair that suits their feet. This concept of ill-fitting shoes serves as a metaphor for feeling out of place or being at odds with the world around them. The chorus repeats the idea of the narrator being dressed as a clown and causing people to burst into tears. This suggests that the narrator's refusal to conform or fit in with societal expectations generates disapproval and sadness from others. The whispering and advice to cover up their toes symbolize the pressure placed on individuals to conform and hide their uniqueness. The lyrics then take a satirical turn, mocking the state of affairs or general chaos that surrounds the narrator. They mention the impending start of something, possibly indicating a significant event or societal change. The absurd image of trying to balance a plate while eating someone's unpleasantly smelling mince pie adds to the overall chaotic and nonsensical atmosphere of the song. Overall, "Everybody Knows" can be interpreted as a critique of society's expectations and pressures to conform, emphasizing the importance of individuality and questioning commonly accepted truths.
