Meaning of Never Ask Twice (aka Airplane) by Madness

In Madness' song titled "Never Ask Twice (aka Airplane)", the band takes us on a playful and imaginative journey exploring the themes of travel, adventure, self-discovery, and the allure of the unknown. With their signature blend of ska and pop, Madness creates a vivid and whimsical atmosphere that captures the essence of exploration and the thrill of breaking out of our comfort zones.The opening lines introduce us to the protagonist's prized possession - a continental alligator skin line shoulder bag covered in stickers from various destinations. This image sets the tone for the song, highlighting the wanderlust and desire for worldly experiences that the lyrics delve into. The bag itself becomes a symbol of the protagonist's character and their unquenchable thirst for adventure.As the lyrics progress, we encounter standout lines such as "I've forgotten the languages and wave my cash," which alludes to the idea that the true essence of travel lies not in the material possessions or linguistic skills acquired, but in the experiences gained and the connections made with people across the globe. It speaks to the idea that travel is a universal language that transcends barriers and opens doors to new opportunities.Another compelling lyric is "I wear a Panama on my Brilcremed hair," which suggests that the protagonist has embraced their newfound identity while traveling, adopting the style and mannerisms of the places they visit. This lyric touches upon the theme of self-transformation and the liberation one feels when stepping outside their comfort zone. It highlights the power of travel to shape our identities and bring out aspects of ourselves we may not have known existed.The compelling phrase "With the voice of authority from the first a-world war" portrays a sense of confidence and swagger the protagonist exudes. It speaks to the idea that through their worldly experiences, they have gained wisdom and a certain air of authority. The reference to the first world war alludes to the historical context and the idea that the traveler has embarked on their own personal "war" against the mundane and routine, choosing instead a life of exploration and adventure.The surreal imagery in the verse "I went all through to Congo on a magic pleasure knock, staving off disease with hallucinogenic drugs" takes the song to a whole new level, delving into the unknown and the mysterious. This lyric hints at the transformative power of travel, where one can escape the constraints of everyday life and delve into uncharted territories both physically and emotionally. It explores the idea that travel can be an intoxicating experience, where boundaries are blurred and new perspectives are gained.The chorus brings us back to the overarching theme of the song, emphasizing the protagonist's love for the seas and the skies. It portrays a sense of longing and belonging, as they find solace in the various modes of transportation they encounter on their adventures. The lyric "travelling companions never ask twice" hints at a certain sense of pride and confidence that the protagonist carries, as they have become a reliable and resourceful traveler, always ready to offer guidance and advice to those around them.In summary, Madness' song "Never Ask Twice (aka Airplane)" paints a vivid picture of a traveler who revels in the joys of exploration, self-discovery, and the allure of the unknown. Through its playful and imaginative lyrics, the song explores themes of wanderlust, transformation, and the universal language of travel. It invites us to reflect on our own desires for adventure and encourages us to step outside our comfort zones in pursuit of the extraordinary experiences that await us in the world. So, let the music whisk you away and ignite the flame of wanderlust within you, for the journey awaits!