Several years ago I met the former guitarist Brian ‘Robbo’ Robertson, who in the middle of winter was walking around in flip-flops. Sandals, flip-flops, snow shoes, clogs, slippers, waders, high heels or flats, pumps, trainers, loafers to brothel creepers, brogues to spats to winkle pickers to tap shoes, hobnail boots to ski shoes, cowboy boots to thigh-length lace-ups, Wellingtons to work boots to Dr Martens, and of course that most beautiful of onomatopoeic words … galoshes.Īre shoes natural? Some people prefer little or nothing on their feet in all weathers. So there are hundreds, if not thousands of songs about shoes or boots walking around out there, but it’s also worth considering those that might mention more particular varieties that have an infinity of associations and uses. Sexy, stylish, aggressive, gentle, humorous, fashionable, sporty, tribal? In the many types and brands out there, there’s a huge variety of meanings and emotions that can be captured with principal or incidental lyrics of songs. Within their sole they contain an imprint of our soul or at least some kind of presence – putting on another person’s pair is a peculiar experience, as if you are inhabiting their ghost, and to metaphorically put yourself in other’s shoes is vital skill, not merely for songwriting and art, but in everyday communication and empathy.Īnd while some people just put on the same pair each day, others are obsessed with the infinite variety of designs, and take huge significance in what social signals they give off. They are ever present, but like eyebrows, also easily ignored. They are intimate in one sense, wrapping around, protecting a vital and vulnerable part of the body, and yet they are also blunt instruments kicking out at the world. It’s a most peculiar thing to human life, exclusive to our species, aside from what is sometimes clod on a horse’s hoof.
“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” – Marilyn Monroeįootwear. And you are the guy who'll decide where to go.” – Dr Seuss You're on your own, and you know what you know. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. “One shoe can change your life.” – Cinderella
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