Meaning of WDSTF (666 Trapslime Remix) by Billy Joel

The Billy Joel song titled "We Didn't Start the Fire" is a powerful and thought-provoking track that highlights the significant events and cultural icons from the mid-20th century. Released in 1989, the song's unique approach of listing these events in rapid succession without a traditional chorus serves to emphasize the theme of generational responsibility. Joel argues that while individuals may not be responsible for the chaos and turmoil in the world, they still have a duty to try and make a positive impact.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Hula hoops, Castro, Edsel is a no-go." This lyric seemingly combines trivial pop culture references with significant political events. However, it establishes the theme of the contrast between escapism and political upheaval. The hula hoop symbolizes a carefree and light-hearted pastime, while Castro represents the revolutionary spirit of the Cuban Revolution. Edsel, a failed automobile brand, embodies the disappointment and unfulfilled promises prevalent during that time. Together, these themes explore the tension between seeking happiness and escapism versus confronting the challenges of the real world.Another important lyric that contributes to the song's overall theme is "Moonshot, Woodstock, Watergate, punk rock." This line covers a broad range of topics, from the optimism and technological advancements of the space race to the countercultural movement embodied by Woodstock. It also touches on the corruption and disillusionment brought about by the Watergate scandal. Lastly, the mention of punk rock symbolizes rebellion and resistance against societal norms. These themes collectively illustrate the ongoing struggle between progress, idealism, and the harsh realities of the world.The lyric "Foreign debts, homeless vets, AIDS, crack, Bernie Goetz" brings attention to the societal issues and challenges faced by America in the late 20th century. Foreign debts highlight the economic struggles, while homeless veterans shed light on the neglect and mistreatment of those who served their country. The mention of AIDS and crack addresses the devastating consequences of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the crack cocaine epidemic that ravaged communities. Lastly, Bernie Goetz, known for the controversial subway shooting incident, represents the growing fear and sense of insecurity in society. This lyric underscores the responsibility of individuals to address and confront these pressing issues.The poignant line "Can’t take it anymore" serves as a reflection of the collective frustration and exhaustion felt by many during this tumultuous time. It conveys the overwhelming nature of the events and the sense of helplessness that can arise in the face of continuous challenges. This theme emphasizes the need for individuals to rally together, support one another, and collectively work towards positive change.Overall, "We Didn't Start the Fire" explores the interconnectedness of historical events, cultural icons, and societal issues. Through its rapid-fire delivery, the song serves as a call to action, reminding listeners of the importance of taking responsibility and contributing to a better world. It encourages individuals to learn from the past, confront current challenges, and strive for a brighter future. The song's themes resonate even today, reminding us of the enduring responsibility we have to shape the world around us.