Meaning of Mad Not Mad by Madness

The Madness song "Mad Not Mad" explores a myriad of themes within its lyrics. At its core, the song may be viewed as an ode to embracing madness and celebrating individuality. Madness, in this context, is not used to describe mental illness but rather a state of mind that diverges from societal norms. Throughout the song, Madness takes the listeners on a journey filled with unexpected and imaginative themes that all tie back to the overarching theme of embracing one's unique perspective.One standout lyric in the song is "Who would have thought it strange that all of us would change?" This line highlights the theme of personal growth and transformation. It suggests that embracing and celebrating madness allows for personal evolution and a departure from the ordinary. Rather than being confined by societal expectations, Madness suggests that change is inevitable and should be embraced rather than feared.Another notable lyric is "Dance with a mad man, mad man, mad man, over the hills and far away." This lyric speaks to the theme of freedom and exploration. It encourages listeners to step outside of their comfort zones and venture into uncharted territory. The notion of dancing with a mad man becomes a metaphor for embracing the unknown and experiencing life to its fullest.The line "In love through thick and thin, I know it will all win" brings forth the theme of resilience and optimism. Here, Madness implies that love and acceptance of one's own mad nature will ultimately triumph over any obstacles faced. It encourages listeners to have faith in the journey and to persevere despite the challenges that may arise.The lyrics also touch upon the theme of friendship and camaraderie. Madness sings, "What are we but our friends, mad not mad." This line suggests that true friendship transcends societal norms and embraces individual quirks and idiosyncrasies. It implies that being mad together creates a bond that can withstand any trials and tribulations.Additionally, the imagery of dancing over Big Ben and sailing round the bend introduces a theme of adventure and escapism. These lines evoke a sense of freedom and rebellion, encouraging listeners to approach life as a grand adventure rather than conforming to a predetermined path. It suggests that embracing madness allows for a departure from the mundane and the possibility of exploring new horizons.Overall, the song "Mad Not Mad" by Madness celebrates the beauty and importance of embracing one's unique perspective. It encourages listeners to resist conformity and societal expectations, instead choosing to celebrate personal growth, freedom, resilience, friendship, and a sense of adventure. Through its imaginative and unexpected themes, the song showcases the power of madness as a catalyst for living life to the fullest and embracing one's true self. So, let us dance with the madness, arm in arm, over the hills and far away.