"Crocodile Shoes" is a song by British singer-songwriter Jimmy Nail, released in 1994 as the theme song of the TV drama series of the same name. The song serves as a reflection of the main character's emotional struggles and his longing for love and connection. The lyrics depict a man who finds solace in consuming alcohol and spirits, trying to numb his pain and fill the void in his life. Despite having someone in his life, he is constantly haunted by thoughts of another woman. The line "Wine, beer, and spirits take me down" signifies his unhealthy coping mechanisms. The protagonist recognizes the impact of his actions on his relationships and laments the loss he has experienced. He feels like an old man trapped in a young man's persona, implying that he has lost his way and is disconnected from his true self. The repetition of the phrase "Crocodile shoes" throughout the song creates a metaphorical image of his shoes crying. This symbolizes the anguish and regret he feels for the choices he has made. The crocodile shoes represent his material possessions and the image he presents to the world, contrasting with the internal turmoil he experiences. The chorus reveals the depth of his longing for love and the pain he carries. The mention of not seeing his kids and missing his wife hints at the consequences of his actions and the broken relationships he wants to reconcile. In the final verse, the protagonist acknowledges his mistakes and the consequences of letting the world slip through his hands. He reveals that talking to his crocodile shoes has become his only source of comfort and solace, emphasizing his isolation and loneliness. Overall, "Crocodile Shoes" tells the story of a man who is lost, burdened by regrets, and desperately seeking love and connection. It portrays the consequences of his choices and serves as a reminder to cherish and prioritize meaningful relationships over materialistic pursuits.
