The song "Money and Class" by Jimmy Barnes explores the struggles and hardships faced by the protagonist, who comes from a society where social status and respect are fleeting, analogous to rain falling. The lyrics depict a feeling of isolation and pressure, as the protagonist feels suffocated by the expectations imposed upon them. The protagonist reflects on a past where they lost everything, both material possessions and personal stability. They describe desperately trying to hold onto what they had and defending themselves hastily, driven by their obsession with money and social standing. This constant pursuit of wealth and privilege led them to sacrifice moments and experiences that could have brought them happiness. The lyrics speak of the protagonist's upbringing, where talk and pride were forced upon them, likely by their father. This pressure stifled their dreams, causing them to wither away like disappearing smoke in the sky. Despite feeling out of place, they braved every closed door, determined to make their mark. As the story unfolds, the protagonist's desperation intensifies. They describe physical and emotional pain, as their body aches and their lungs burn. The inability to support their family with the meager wages they earn fills them with guilt and frustration. In their pursuit of success, their dreams fade away under the weight of violence and shattered dreams. The lyrics convey a sense of being overwhelmed, with the walls closing in and fear enveloping the protagonist. They realize the time they wasted and the futility of their fight, feeling crushed by the shame associated with money and social status. They are left feeling trampled and defeated. However, the protagonist acknowledges that they can display toughness and rebellion. They can fight, drink, shout, and sing, even if they don't fit into societal norms. Doors that were closed to them become doors they are determined to kick in. Ultimately, the song culminates in an emotional realization. The walls closing in on the protagonist reveal the wasted time and misplaced priorities. They were lost in a never-ending battle over money and social standing. The repetition of the phrase "over money and class" emphasizes the protagonist's all-encompassing struggle and their feeling of being trapped within societal pressures. Overall, Jimmy Barnes's "Money and Class" delves into the personal and societal conflicts resulting from societal expectations and the pursuit of wealth and status. The song serves as a poignant commentary on the toll this pursuit can take on individuals, their relationships, and their overall well-being.
