Meaning of Barbarian by INXS

In the mesmerizing world of music, certain songs have the power to transport us to faraway realms and evoke deep emotions. One such song that captivates our imagination is "Barbarian" by INXS. Released in 1984, this iconic track delves into various themes and ideas that compel us to reflect on our own lives and the world around us.At its core, the theme of "Barbarian" revolves around the concept of transformation and the gradual process of building something meaningful. The opening lines, "First there's nothing, takes a long time, piece by piece, it comes together," set the stage for a lyrical journey that speaks to the human experience of creating and evolving.Examining the standout lyrics within the song, one line that stands out is "he makes drawings, turns them into real things, simple paintings on caves long ago." While this might seem like a straightforward description, a closer look reveals a theme of creativity and the timeless urge to express oneself through art. It conveys a message of the eternal power of artistic endeavors, linking past and present through the enduring need for self-expression.Moving forward, the line "a lot of people, bent on the future, set up the countries, closing all the doors" seems to touch on the theme of societal constructs and the consequences of our actions. It prompts us to consider the impact of our decisions on the world and the potential for both positive and negative outcomes. It highlights the importance of being aware of the choices we make and the responsibility we bear for shaping the future.Continuing on, the lyric "just like a game, always a winner, but he works hard, surprise to himself" unveils a theme of personal growth and self-discovery. It suggests that even in the pursuit of success, there can be a sense of self-doubt and astonishment at one's own achievements. This serves as a reminder that the journey itself holds immense value, regardless of the outcome.As the song progresses, the lyrics "now he thinks big, thinks he's come a long way, but we all know, long long way to go" touch upon the theme of ambition and the never-ending desire to strive for more. It reminds us that our pursuit of greatness is a continuous process, and even when we feel a sense of accomplishment, we must remain aware of the vast possibilities that lie ahead.Returning to the opening lines, "first there's nothing, takes a long time, piece by piece, it comes together," we find a recurring theme of patience and perseverance. This sentiment encourages us to embrace the gradual progression towards our goals and appreciate the small victories along the way. It emphasizes that true growth requires time and dedication, and it is often the incremental steps that ultimately lead to something extraordinary.Ultimately, the diverse themes explored in "Barbarian" converge to form a rich tapestry of introspection and appreciation for the human journey. From the transformative power of art to the societal impact of our choices, the song invites us to consider our role in the world and the potential for personal and collective growth.Perhaps "Barbarian" serves as a gentle reminder that we are all capable of creating something remarkable, piece by piece. It encourages us to embrace the creative spirit within us, navigate through the complexities of life with intention, and appreciate the journey of self-discovery. Like the elusive barbarian, we may often feel lonely in our pursuit, but we are not alone in our quest to bring our dreams to life.So, as we let the hypnotic melodies of "Barbarian" wash over us, let us embrace the power of transformation and the beauty that comes with constructing our own meaningful narratives, piece by piece.