The song "Sorry" by UB40 speaks about the injustices and oppression faced by a certain group of people. The lyrics convey a message of demanding restitution and recognition for the wrongs committed against them. The song starts by rejecting apologies and instead emphasizes the need for action and compensation. The phrase "Please don't say sorry, presuming a respect for what you say" suggests that empty apologies are not enough to address the deep-seated issues and pain caused. The lyrics also highlight the importance of acknowledging the truth and historical context. By saying "Trying to erase our memory," the song points out the attempts made to rewrite or ignore the past, dismissing the suffering endured by the group being referenced. The chorus conveys a strong sentiment of not wanting charity, but rather wanting what rightfully belongs to them. The phrase "Give me what belongs to me" represents a call for reparations and justice. The repeated line "Give me what belongs to me" reinforces this demand and the sense of urgency. The song further emphasizes the dissatisfaction with apologies that do not lead to change. The line "Money speaks and bullshit's walking" suggests that actions and financial compensation are more important than empty words or excuses. The lyrics also touch upon the notion that an apology alone does not indicate true remorse or understanding. The line "If you say sorry, can I assume you've realized the shame" questions the sincerity behind apologies and suggests that the true test lies in rectifying the injustice and addressing the root causes. The song concludes with a call for immediate reparation, emphasizing the long history of suffering endured by the group referenced. The lyrics state, "A four hundred years is not just the other day," emphasizing the need to acknowledge and compensate for the accumulated injustices spanning generations. Overall, "Sorry" by UB40 speaks to the need for action, restitution, and recognition of historical injustices faced by a specific group or community. The song conveys a powerful message of not settling for empty apologies and demanding tangible restitution and justice.
