☝️ Key Points
- The song begins with the expression of a constant struggle and hope for achieving a fulfilling life goal. This speaks to the universal human aspiration and the constant search for meaning and purpose.
- There is a notable skepticism towards common notions of community and belonging. This is depicted through the reference to the 'brotherhood of man' and the ambiguous connotations associated with it.
- Inner restlessness and confusion are central themes of the song. They are expressed through repeated lines about screaming and feeling a 'peculiar' state.
- There is a strong desire for change or 'revolution', possibly on a personal or societal level. This is illustrated through the prayer for a revolution.
- The text concludes with a repetition of the opening lines, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the search and confusion. Overall, 'What's Up' conveys a sense of alienation and longing for understanding in an often bewildering world.
Interpretation
The lyrics of 'What's Up' by
4 Non Blondes deal with feelings of confusion and the search for the meaning of life. It begins with the line '25 years and my life is still / Tryin' to get up that great big hill of hope for a destination', which expresses the ongoing struggle and hope for a fulfilling purpose in life.
The singer quickly realizes that the world is made up of a 'brotherhood of man' 'For whatever that means', indicating a certain skepticism towards common conceptions of community and belonging.
The repeated lines 'And so I cry sometimes when I'm lying in bed / Just to get it all out what's in my head' and 'And I, I'm feelin' a little peculiar' reveal inner restlessness and confusion. The singer feels uneasy and doesn't understand what's going on in the world, which is expressed through the repeated cry of 'What's goin' on?'.
Throughout the lyrics, it becomes clear that the singer is trying to bring about a change or 'revolution' through prayers. This could represent a desire for personal transformation or societal change.
The song ends with the repetition of the opening lines, emphasizing the ongoing cycle of searching and confusion. Overall, 'What's Up' expresses a sense of alienation and the search for understanding and meaning in an often bewildering world.