Meaning of Dancing On The Jetty by INXS

The song "Dancing On The Jetty" by INXS is a thought-provoking piece that delves into various themes and ideas. At first glance, the song appears to touch upon societal conflict and the desire for peace and happiness. However, as we explore its lyrics in more detail, we can uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that offer a fresh perspective on the song's overall message.One of the standout lyrics in this song states, "Watch the world argue, argue with itself." This lyric captures the essence of the song, highlighting the chaotic nature of our society. It suggests that even though there are endless debates and disagreements, there seems to be no resolution or progress. Expanding on this theme, we can interpret it as a commentary on the futility of arguments and conflicts in the world.Another intriguing lyric is, "Hit cities, sharp nights, the right clothing, dancing on the jetty." This line depicts a vibrant and energetic scene, hinting at the excitement and allure of city life. However, when we delve deeper into this lyric, we can uncover a theme related to the concept of escapism. The mention of the "right clothing," along with "dancing on the jetty" implies that people use external factors—such as fashion and entertainment—to distract themselves from the turmoil and disagreements occurring in the world. It raises the question of whether these distractions truly bring the peace and happiness that people seek.In the lyric, "Blood is upon the steps, two thousand years ago, pray like hell then we go to fight, another war in a holy land," the song takes a historical turn. It introduces a theme of never-ending conflict and violence throughout human history. This theme highlights the repetitive nature of wars and the underlying struggle for power and control. It prompts us to reflect on the human capacity for destruction and question whether humanity will ever break this cycle.Moving on, the lyric, "Shot the world, true story, snap decision in a moment's glory," injects a dose of realism and urgency into the song. It explores the theme of impulsive actions and their consequences. This theme suggests that decisions made in a moment of glory or without considering the full consequences can have far-reaching impacts. It emphasizes the need for contemplation and thoughtfulness before taking action in order to achieve a more peaceful and harmonious world.Additionally, the lyric, "We're making trouble, we change tracks, fool the system, take time to take notice," introduces a theme of rebellion and defiance. It suggests that there is a need to challenge the existing systems and structures to bring about positive change. This theme encourages us to question societal norms and actively seek out moments that require our attention and intervention.Overall, "Dancing On The Jetty" explores themes of societal conflict, escapism, historical violence, impulsive actions, rebellion, and the need for change. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song encourages listeners to reflect on the chaos and disagreements present in the world while also urging them to seek peace and happiness. By capturing these unexpected and imaginative themes, INXS offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of human existence and prompts us to strive for a more harmonious future.