Guiltiness
Bob Marley · Exodus
Pressed on their conscience. Oh yeah.
And they live their lives (they live their lives)
On false pretence everyday -
each and everyday. Yeah.
These are the big fish
Who always try to eat down the small fish,
just the small fish.
I tell you what: they would do anything
To materialize their every wish. Oh yeah-eah-eah-eah.
Say: Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sorrow!
Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sad tomorrow!
Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sorrow!
Oh, yeah-eah! Oh, yeah-eah-eah-eah!
Guiltiness
Pressed on their conscience. Oh yeah. Oh yeah.
These are the big fish
Who always try to eat down the small fish,
just the small fish.
I tell you what: they would do anything
To materialize their every wish. Oh, yeah-eah-eah-eah-eah-eah.
But: Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sorrow!
Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sad tomorrow!
Woe to the downpressors:
They'll eat the bread of sad tomorrow!
Oh, yeah-eah! Oh yeah-e-e-e-e-e!
Guiltiness. Oh yeah. Ah!
They'll eat the bread of sorrow everyday.
About Guiltiness
Bob Marley's "Guiltiness" stands as a pivotal track on the 1977 album *Exodus*, serving as a direct response to the intense pressure and scrutiny he faced from the Jamaican government and media regarding his political activism. Released during a period of heightened tension, the song articulates the internal conflict and moral burden of a public figure striving to remain true to their principles despite external threats. With its characteristic reggae rhythm and Marley's resonant vocals, the recording captures the raw emotion of standing firm in one's convictions. The track exemplifies the depth of Marley's work, moving beyond simple protest to explore the personal cost of resistance. It complements other powerful themes on *Exodus*, such as "Waiting In Vain," which also addresses the futility of political oppression. By focusing on the psychological weight of guilt and the necessity of integrity, the song remains a timeless reflection on the struggle between personal safety and moral duty, cementing Marley's legacy as a voice for the oppressed and a symbol of unyielding truth.