“Ball of Confusion” is a 1970 hit song by a US band called The Temptations, and is an example of the “psychedelic soul” style and is also noteworthy for its overtly political themes. This article will endeavor to compare the lyrics with what is happening in Pakistan. It is not a protest but a tilt towards the compulsion of highlighting the ground realities.

The first lyric states, People moving out, people moving in. Why, because of the color of their skin. In Pakistan, there has been a marked increase in the exodus of young talent leaving for better prospects, better quality of life, safety and security, and income commensurate with their experience and academic qualifications. Pakistan is also plagued with illegal migrants under the garb of refugees, entering from, at times, the porous borders.

Afghans came in multitudes after the Taliban took over the country once again from NATO forces and the then Kabul government in 2021. The menace of Afghan refugees is not for the first time. Pakistan was faced with a deluge of refugees even when the original Taliban established their “Emirates” in 1996.

Moreover, there has always been a continuing inflow of refugees from countries such as Bangladeshis, Tajiks, Uzbeks, Turkmen, Indians, Sri Lankans, Burmese, etc. Hence color of their skin can denote ethnicity, language, and traditions.

The second lyric, states Vote for me and I’ll set you free. Election fervour in Pakistan has candidates and their political parties promising the moon, and despite failed promises of the past, the voters, like drones in a beehive, faithfully and consistently brave the elements of nature to flock to the grounds to listen and cheer their leaders and vote for them. They are insensitive when told by those opposing their party that their vote went to naught because most of the promises just vanished in the air.

Political parties present their manifestos, ostensibly written by expert scriptwriters, and pledge that they would conscientiously adhere to the contents of their manifesto and, once elected, there will be deliverance for the masses. Election win, government sworn in, promises renewed, and then the manifesto is relegated to the proverbial dustbin. Citizens are left to the mercy of these parties and despite biting the bullet, they still remain captive of the party.

The next line states, Well, the only person talking about love thy brother is the preacher/And it seems nobody’s interested........

© Business Recorder