What Do You Say?

Song Meaning

The lyrics present a stark ultimatum, framed by a repeated, almost disbelieving question: "What do you say?" This isn't a gentle inquiry, but a challenge thrown down in the face of perceived defiance. The central tension arises from the demand to profess love for Haile Selassie, with the immediate consequence of refusal being a fiery retribution upon the individual and their family. It’s a powerful, almost terrifying declaration of faith and loyalty, leaving no room for ambiguity or compromise. The lyrical construction emphasizes Selassie's divine and unassailable nature. He is described as the creator of "heaven and earth," "bigger than sin," and possessing qualities that make him infinitely vast and deep – "wider than broad," "highest," and "deeper than the deepest sea." This imagery serves to elevate him beyond mortal comprehension, positioning him as an ultimate authority. The repeated invocation of "Blessed be the king / Who cometh in the name of the Lord" further solidifies this divine status, framing any rejection as an affront to the sacred. The most striking element is the direct, almost violent threat that follows the repeated question. The phrase "Fire gonna burn you and your family" is a visceral image of damnation and collective punishment. This stark contrast between the divine attributes of Selassie and the immediate, earthly consequence of familial destruction creates a potent emotional impact. It suggests that the speaker views this love not as a personal choice, but as a fundamental requirement for survival and salvation, with non-compliance leading to utter annihilation. This lyrical approach is effective because it bypasses nuanced theological debate and goes straight for an emotional, almost primal response. The repetition of the question and the threat hammers home the gravity of the situation, demanding an immediate, unthinking allegiance. The lyrics don't seek to persuade; they seek to command and to instill fear, making the demand for love for Haile Selassie an absolute imperative with dire, inescapable consequences.