Meaning of Working On Machines by Gorillaz

The Gorillaz song titled 'Working On Machines' is a mesmerizing journey through the complexities of life and the impact of our actions on ourselves and the world around us. The overall theme of the song revolves around the metaphorical machine, symbolizing the routines and mechanisms we all fall into, and how we navigate through them. It explores the concept of working tirelessly on something, whether it's a dream, a relationship, or any aspect of life, and the profound effects it can have.One standout lyric in the song is "Little memories, marching on, your little feet, working the machine." This lyric introduces the idea of memories as tiny soldiers marching forward, representing how our experiences shape us and drive us to keep moving forward. The theme of memories ties into the larger theme of the song by highlighting that our past experiences and emotions fuel our actions as we work on the machine of life.Another lyric that stands out is "Soon, like a wave, empires will fall, and closing in on you, they're going on." This lyric represents the cyclical nature of life and how empires, both personal and grand, eventually crumble or evolve. The idea of empires falling can be interpreted as the breaking down of societal constructs or even personal barriers that prevent us from truly living our lives. It emphasizes the need to adapt and grow, as life constantly moves forward.The main themes that these lyrics help develop are the transformative power of memories and the impermanence of structures. Memories act as fuel, propelling us as individuals to keep working on our dreams and aspirations. They remind us of why we started in the first place and what we hope to achieve. On a broader scale, memories serve as a collective reminder of history, shaping and reshaping society's structures.The reference to empires falling ties into the larger theme of adaptability and the need to be constantly evolving. It suggests that the machine we work on is not static but ever-changing, and our ability to adapt and let go of old structures is crucial for progress. Like waves washing ashore, the cycles of life continue, tearing down the old to make way for the new.Ultimately, 'Working On Machines' is a profound exploration of how our actions, memories, and the ever-shifting nature of life shape our journeys. It encourages us to reflect on the machine we work on, be it our personal goals, relationships, or even broader societal constructs, and question if we are working towards what truly matters.As we reflect on the unexpected themes brought forth by the lyrics, it becomes apparent that the song delves into the human experience at its core. It reminds us to cherish the memories that drive us forward and to embrace the inevitable changes that shape our world. In a world full of noise and distractions, 'Working On Machines' is a gentle reminder to stay focused, stay adaptable, and keep working towards our dreams while continuously evaluating the machine we are working on.In conclusion, 'Working On Machines' is a thought-provoking song that takes the listener on a contemplative journey about the nature of life and the significance of our actions. Through its enchanting lyrics, the song delves into unexpected themes, such as the transformative power of memories and the impermanence of structures. It serves as a reminder to navigate through the complexities of life while holding on to what truly matters. So, let us tune in and allow the sonic waves of this song to resonate within us, inspiring us to keep working on the machine that is our life.