These lyrics are from the song "Down Under" by Men at Work, released in 1981. The song is known for its catchy melody and whimsical lyrics, which combine elements of storytelling and cultural references. Let's analyze the lyrics line by line:
"Traveling in a fried-out Kombi"
The singer sets the scene by describing their mode of transportation, a "fried-out Kombi," likely referring to a Volkswagen Kombi van that has seen better days. This line suggests a sense of adventure or exploration.
"On a hippie trail, head full of zombie"
The mention of a "hippie trail" hints at a journey associated with counterculture and free-spirited exploration. "Head full of zombie" may allude to feeling somewhat detached or spaced out, possibly due to the experiences along the way.
"I met a strange lady, she made me nervous"
The protagonist encounters a mysterious woman who makes them feel uneasy or anxious. This encounter adds an element of intrigue to the story.
"She took me in and gave me breakfast"
Despite the initial nervousness, the strange lady offers the singer hospitality by providing breakfast. This gesture contrasts with the earlier tension.
"And she said, 'Do you come from a land down under'"
The lady's question implies curiosity about the protagonist's origins, which sets the stage for the recurring theme of cultural identity and nationality.
"Where women glow and men plunder?"
The lady's question includes a playful stereotype about her perception of the singer's homeland, suggesting a place where women are radiant and men engage in adventurous exploits.
"Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?"
This line introduces a sense of urgency or danger, as if there is something ominous in the air.
"You better run, you better take cover"
The lady's warning adds to the mysterious atmosphere, implying that the protagonist should be cautious or escape from some impending threat.
"Buying bread from a man in Brussels"
The narrative shifts to a different location, with the protagonist now in Brussels, buying bread from a formidable-looking man.
"He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich"
Despite the language barrier, the man in Brussels responds positively by offering the protagonist a Vegemite sandwich. This contrasts with expectations and highlights the power of shared experiences.
"I come from a land down under"
The man in Brussels reveals that he also hails from the same "land down under" mentioned earlier, further emphasizing the theme of national identity.
"Where beer does flow and men chunder"
This line humorously perpetuates the stereotype of Australian culture as a place where beer is abundant and men engage in excessive drinking (chunder).
"Lying in a den in Bombay"
The story shifts to Bombay (now Mumbai), India, where the protagonist finds themselves in a relaxed state.
"With a slack jaw and not much to say"
The protagonist appears content and speechless, suggesting a tranquil and contemplative moment.
"I said to the man, 'Are you trying to tempt me?'"
The protagonist, feeling tempted by the surroundings or possibly the offer of something enticing, questions the man's intentions.
"Because I come from the land of plenty"
The protagonist subtly asserts that they come from a place of abundance and are not easily swayed.
"Oh, 'Do you come from a land down under?"
The man in Bombay echoes the earlier question, continuing the theme of inquiring about the protagonist's homeland.
"You better run, you better take cover"
The repetition of the warning to "run" and "take cover" suggests a recurring sense of impending danger.
"Living in a land down under"
The chorus reiterates the idea of living in this intriguing "land down under" with its glowing women and plundering men.
"Where women glow and men plunder"
The chorus repeats the playful stereotypes, reinforcing the imagery of the singer's homeland.
"Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?"
The urgency and danger are once again emphasized in the chorus.
"You better run, you better take cover"
The chorus concludes with the same warning, maintaining the suspense.
"Where women glow and men plunder"
The chorus repeats, driving home the central theme of the song.
"Can't you, can't you hear the thunder?"
The song continues to build tension by asking the listener to pay attention to the approaching thunder.
The lyrics of "Down Under" combine humor, cultural references, and a sense of adventure to create an engaging and memorable story. The song playfully explores stereotypes and perceptions while maintaining an air of mystery and excitement throughout.
Leave your comment here: