Song meaning of White Fool by Clannad

The song "White Fool" by Clannad addresses the destructive nature of colonization and the negative impact it has on indigenous peoples. The lyrics depict a sense of inevitability and betrayal as the "white fool" arrives in a new land, bringing destruction and change that alters everything. 

The repeated lines "the wheels of the world keep on turning, it's inevitable" emphasize that this colonization process is a recurring pattern that often leads to exploitation and suffering. The mention of "corrupt people of this world" stealing and fighting shows the disregard these colonizers have for the land and its original inhabitants. 

The phrase "A thousand years of tribeland" highlights the long history and rich culture that the indigenous people had before the arrival of the colonizers, emphasizing the loss they experienced. The lyrics also suggest that greed and lust stripped the earth bare, indicating the irreversible environmental damage caused by colonization. 

The cries of anthem and unrest signify the resistance and struggle of the indigenous people, refusing to be silenced or forgotten. The reference to the three tribesmen and their traditional ways serves as a reminder of the wisdom and knowledge that is often oppressed and undervalued in the face of colonization. 

Overall, the lyrics of "White Fool" convey a poignant message about the consequences of colonization, urging listeners to reflect on the ongoing impacts and injustices faced by indigenous communities.