"Feet Don't Fail Me Now" by Joy Crookes tells the story of someone who is grappling with their privilege and the contradictions they experience in their personal beliefs and actions. The song begins with the narrator acknowledging their performative activism, posing with red skies and retweeting picket signs. They admit to putting their name on petitions but not truly changing their mindset. Despite their awareness of the dark side of their privilege, they express gratitude for their vices, like dopamine addiction, that keep them from recognizing what is right. The narrator reveals their discomfort with their better side, the side that wants to do good and make a difference. They didn't want others to know about it, possibly out of fear. However, they acknowledge that they must stand their ground and confront their privilege, even though they feel more comfortable denying it. The crocodile imagery appears in the song, implying that the narrator sheds insincere tears and drinks opinions without genuinely reflecting on them. They claim to always have an answer, acting as if sunlight emanates from their mouth. They express a preference for breaking rules rather than showing their face, indicating a fear of vulnerability and personal accountability. Despite their fear and reluctance, the narrator realizes that avoiding blame and hiding only perpetuates the cycle. They question why they didn't try harder, suggesting a desire for personal growth and change. In the end, the plea for their feet not to fail them reinforces their determination to stand their ground, despite the challenges. They acknowledge that they may falter in their attempts, but they are willing to continue trying to confront their privilege and live authentically. Overall, "Feet Don't Fail Me Now" explores the internal struggle of someone coming to terms with their privilege, the performative nature of their actions, and the need to confront their fears and stand up for what is right.
