The song "Drowning" by Hootie & The Blowfish is about the issues of racism and hatred in society. The lyrics express anger and frustration towards the rebel flag hanging from the state house walls and the constant excuse of heritage not hate. The song questions why people hate one another and emphasizes the need to make the world a better place. The chorus of the song talks about drowning in a sea of tears and living only for oneself, while hating everybody else because they don't look like you. The lyrics highlight the importance of understanding and accepting differences in others instead of focusing on their appearance or skin color. The song also references Nanci Griffith's song "It's a Hard Life Wherever You Go," which tells the story of a fat racist living in Chicago, trying to teach his kids to hate everyone. Hootie & The Blowfish questions why anyone would want to teach their children to hate others based on their appearance or background. The ending of the song expresses the desire to be a role model for others, but also acknowledges the difficulties of being accepted when looking different from the majority. The song sends a message of unity and acceptance, calling for an end to hatred towards others who may not look or talk like us.
