The song "French Shoes" by John Mellencamp is a lighthearted and humorous track that tells the story of a good-looking man who wears funny French shoes. The lyrics describe him as a likable guy standing at around six foot three with long brown hair. However, despite his attractive appearance, he lacks awareness of how silly he looks in his choice of footwear. The song emphasizes the man's obliviousness to the perception of others, as the narrator states that everyone liked him but he didn't have a clue. The funny French shoes in question are described as a slip-on style with leather soles and no heels. These shoes typically have a feminine connotation, but the man wears them without concern for societal expectations. The narrator admits that it's not right to judge someone based on their appearance or the people they associate with. However, they reveal their own personal bias and embarrassment by admitting that they couldn't trust a man wearing those funny French shoes. The lyrics highlight a sense of discomfort or unease with the unconventional footwear choice. Overall, "French Shoes" is a playful commentary on societal norms and the impact of personal style choices. It portrays the clash between appearances and traditional expectations, specifically focusing on the funny French shoes as a symbol of nonconformity.
