R.E.M - Green Grow the Rushes Lyrics
Lyrics Translation
"Green Grow the Rushes" is a thoughtful song from Fables of the Reconstruction (1985). Written by all R.E.M. members, it subtly critiques the exploitation of labor and natural resources, blending introspective lyrics with a melodic arrangement.
Song lyrics
The wheelbarrow's fallen, look at my hands
They've found some surplus cheaper hands
Rubbing palms and pick and choose
Who will they choose, here is the news
Look at that building, look at this man
Haloed and whitewashed
Gone to find a cheaper hand
He'll offer a pound, offer a pound
Green grow the rushes go, green grow the rushes go
Green grow the rushes go, the compass points the workers home
Pay for your freedom
Or find another gate
Guilt by associate, the rushes wilted a long time ago
Guilty as you go
Stay off that highway, word is it's not so safe
The grasses that hide the greenback
The amber waves of gain again
The amber waves of grain
Green grow the rushes go, green grow the rushes go
Green grow the rushes go, the compass points the workers home