Meaning of Viking Juice by INXS

The INXS song 'Viking Juice' is a thought-provoking piece that delves into the complexities of life and the music industry. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the decline of the rock and roll genre and the challenges faced by musicians in an ever-changing world. It explores the struggles faced by artists trying to navigate through an industry that may no longer offer the same opportunities and recognition as before. The lyrics of 'Viking Juice' paint a vivid picture of these struggles and offer multiple layers of meaning.One standout lyric in the song is "Can't stop looking at the lights, all around my head." This line presents the idea of being entranced by the glamour and fame associated with the music industry. It symbolizes the allure and temptation that can distract an artist from focusing on their craft. However, a closer interpretation of this lyric reveals a deeper theme of the insincerity and superficiality within the industry. The lights that the narrator cannot stop looking at can be seen as a metaphor for the false promises and illusions that surround the music world. It highlights the struggle to maintain authenticity in an industry driven by image and commercial success.Another notable lyric is "Crashed the car into a wall, but everybody's calling for more." This line explores the dichotomy between artistic expression and audience expectations. It reflects the pressure placed on musicians to continuously produce new and exciting content, even if it means pushing boundaries and risking failure. The crash into a wall symbolizes a creative misstep or a setback within the industry. It reflects the internal conflict faced by artists when their artistry clashes with commercial demands. This lyric emphasizes the constant need for reinvention and the difficulty of satisfying both personal artistic vision and public expectations.The line "These days are numbered, counted out in loss, faith and spirit walking hand in hand" introduces a new theme related to the fragility of success and the perseverance required to navigate through challenging times. It conveys a sense of despair and acknowledges that time may be running out for the rock and roll genre. The reference to faith and spirit walking hand in hand suggests that resilience and artistic integrity are vital even in the face of adversity. This lyric reminds us that success is not solely measured by fame or popularity but by the unwavering belief in one's art.The lyric "We ask too much of the song, to come and save our souls, when all it's trying to do now is save its own" delves into the relationship between music and its listeners. It speaks to the unrealistic expectations often placed upon artists to provide solace or answers to their audience. It highlights the burdensome role that music is sometimes expected to play in people's lives. The notion that the song is trying to save its own soul signifies the struggle faced by artists to stay true to their artistic vision and creativity amidst the pressures of the industry. This theme explores the delicate balance between the artist's authenticity and the audience's desire for escapism.In conclusion, 'Viking Juice' by INXS is a profound song that delves into the complex themes of the music industry and the challenges faced by artists. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song explores the decline of rock and roll, the pressures of the industry, and the struggle to maintain artistic integrity. Each standout lyric offers a unique perspective and adds layers of meaning to the overall theme. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of the artist's journey and the ever-evolving nature of the music world.