"Slap Leather" is a song by James Taylor from his 1997 album "Hourglass." The lyrics depict a critical view of society, particularly focusing on themes of greed, manipulation, and the media. The song addresses various issues such as the misuse of money, the prioritization of weapons over humanitarian needs, and the influence of television and advertising on society. The song begins with the line "Take all the money that we need for school and to keep the street people in out of the cold," suggesting that valuable resources are being misallocated. Taylor then criticizes the idea of spending money on weapons that will never be used, making an offer to the world that they can't refuse. This highlights the obsession with power and control. Taylor goes on to criticize the media and the television industry, suggesting that the whole world has become a TV show with the same repetitive game wherever one goes. The mention of celebrities being treated as close friends and the illusion of knowing how their story ends represents the way media influences people's lives and blurs the line between reality and fiction. The song also touches on the concept of going to war and how society is easily manipulated into fighting. The line "Get all worked up so we can go to war, we find something worth killing for" suggests that conflicts are often fueled by manufactured reasons rather than genuine causes. Throughout the song, Taylor uses sarcastic humor to convey his critique. The repetition of phrases like "slap leather," "big McFalafel," and "phone love" adds a playful element to the lyrics while still maintaining a critical tone. Overall, "Slap Leather" is a satirical song that addresses social and political issues, showcasing James Taylor's ability to shed light on problematic aspects of society through his music.
