Meaning of 'Building Up And Tearing England Down'

by The Dubliners

Interpretation

"Building Up And Tearing England Down" is a song by the Dubliners that talks about the experiences and tough life of construction workers. The lyrics depict the challenges faced by the workers and the dangers associated with building and infrastructure construction.

The song begins with the singer describing his experiences as a construction worker and how he has worked with different companies. He also mentions that he has often been unemployed and had to rely on unemployment benefits when there is no work. The lyrics say: "I've been often on the road on me way to draw the dole, When there's nothing left to do for Johnny Laing." This shows that it is difficult for the workers to find work and that they are sometimes unemployed.

The singer also describes the hard work on the construction site and the high expectations of the foremen. He tells the story of a foreman telling him to roughly tear open a hole, and another foreman ordering him to continue while he is in danger. The lyrics say: "I've had ganger's big and tough, Tell me tear that hole out rough, When you're building up and tearing England down." This shows that the workers often face high pressure and have to work in dangerous situations.

The lyrics also include stories of accidents and injuries that happen on the construction site. A young man from Limerick is found in an underground tunnel after being poured in concrete. Another worker falls from a construction site and gets seriously injured. The lyrics say: "In a tunnel under ground a young Limerick man was found, He was build in to the new Victoria line." This shows that the work on the construction site can be dangerous and sometimes has tragic consequences.

The lyrics also address the pride of the workers in their work and their resilience. The singer tells the story of a man swearing to set the world on fire, and another who is like Robin Hood. The lyrics say: "I remember carrier Jack with his hod upon his back, How he swore one day he'd set the world on fire." This shows that the workers are proud of their skills and their contribution to construction.

The lyrics also criticize the injustices and hierarchies on the construction site. The workers are referred to as "navvy's bold" and it is pointed out that it is unlikely for them to receive recognition or awards for their work. The lyrics say: "Do not think that English gold, Is just waiting to be taken from each sod, By the likes of you and me will never get the O.B.E." This shows that the workers often do not receive the recognition they deserve and that it is difficult to advance in this industry.

Overall, the lyrics of the song "Building Up And Tearing England Down" are about the harsh working conditions, the dangers, and the challenges faced by construction workers. It also addresses the pride and resilience of the workers, as well as the injustices and hierarchies on the construction site. It is a song that tells the experiences and stories of the workers and honors their work.