The song "Sweat It Out" by Jimmy Barnes explores themes of societal and environmental destruction, as well as the need for individuals to take responsibility and initiate change. The lyrics suggest that heat rises and rain refuses to fall, symbolizing the imbalances and consequences of our actions. The phrase "We've run so far it's time to crawl" implies that we have disregarded important lessons and have reached a point where we must face the consequences of our choices. The line "And we all forget each lesson learned" highlights our tendency to repeat past mistakes. "We played with fire and now we'll all get burned" suggests that our reckless actions will eventually come back to harm us. We are "gonna have to sweat it out," meaning that we will have to endure the challenges and difficulties resulting from our actions. The lyrics further criticize the lack of accountability and the tendency to shift blame. "Can't ignore it or pass the blame" urges individuals to take responsibility instead of pointing fingers. "While lovers walk in acid rain" emphasizes the damaging effects on innocent people caused by the actions of others. The line "Feed the world was just a song, they want to bleed the world and build a bomb" criticizes the empty promises and deceptive intentions of those in power. It suggests that the idea of helping others has been replaced by selfishness and the desire for control. "Gonna have to work it out" implies the need for hard work and effort to bring about change. The song also touches upon the corrupt nature of politics, theft, and banking institutions. "They offered us the very best until our souls are repossessed" suggests that the promises and offerings made by those in authority eventually leave us empty and soulless. The lyrics question why, despite our intelligence, we continue to fall apart and break the rules. The phrase "Our rise and fall has taken no time at all" reflects the rapid destruction we have caused. Barnes highlights that it is the meek who inherit the earth, but what is left behind only fuels their anger and ignorance. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness and the realization that it may be too late to save the world. "Just kiss the whole world goodbye" implies that we have reached a point of no return. Overall, "Sweat It Out" serves as a call to action, urging listeners to recognize their role in the current state of the world and to take steps towards positive change.
