I think everyone who's posted so far is correct, but I think Fats is someone Les used to know (from Barrington probably). My comment in 'The Air Is Getting Slippery' reflects how on how certain songs may refer to Fats or his friends (On 'The Tweek Again' has a different name, but 'The Air Is...' mentions his friend Fats who sells meth).
As far as I can tell Les writes about people and places he knew and metaphors about social theory, life, politics and all sorts. Some including this song (if not all) are personal and metaphors simultaneously.
I think everyone who's posted so far is correct, but I think Fats is someone Les used to know (from Barrington probably). My comment in 'The Air Is Getting Slippery' reflects how on how certain songs may refer to Fats or his friends (On 'The Tweek Again' has a different name, but 'The Air Is...' mentions his friend Fats who sells meth).
As far as I can tell Les writes about people and places he knew and metaphors about social theory, life, politics and all sorts. Some including this song (if not all) are personal and metaphors simultaneously.