Meaning of Action This Day (Live at the Milton Keynes Bowl, 5th June 1982) by Queen

The song "Action This Day" by Queen is an electrifying anthem that showcases the band's signature blend of rock and pop sensibilities. Released in 1982 as part of their album "Hot Space," this live version from the Milton Keynes Bowl concert in June of the same year captures the raw energy and passion of Queen's live performances.At its core, "Action This Day" portrays a sense of urgency and a call to action. The overall theme of the song is the constant struggle one faces in navigating the complexities of life, particularly in a world that seems to be using and manipulating individuals rather than empowering them. Queen masterfully crafts each lyric to convey this theme through various inventive and imaginative approaches.The lyrics "This street honey is a mean street", "Living in this street honey needs a mean streak", and "We've got criminals living in this street" personify the world as a harsh and unforgiving environment. These standout lyrics highlight the dark and sinister atmosphere that individuals often find themselves trapped in. It exposes the inherent challenges and difficulties that come with living in a society that can be ruthless and demanding.Further in the song, the lyrics "You got a heartbeat pulse that keeps on pumping" and "I gotta feeling, this world is using me" evoke a sense of relentless motion and the feeling of being manipulated by external forces. This theme is amplified by the imagery of a jukebox playing the same dead record and a radio blaring in the background. These lyrics suggest that individuals may feel trapped in a cycle, controlled by external influences without being able to assert their own agency.The chorus of the song, with its repeated anthem-like refrain "Action this day, action this night", emphasizes the importance of taking control and seizing opportunities. It urges listeners to embrace their power to know and live, presenting action as the key to breaking free from the grip of a world that is using them. By employing the repetition of these lyrics, Queen reinforces the sense of urgency and the need for individuals to actively engage with their lives.Another standout lyric is "Your mind honey is a bleak place, living in your mind honey in a blank space". These lyrics delve into the realm of inner struggles and illustrate the battles one faces within their own mind. It highlights the overwhelming sense of emptiness and confusion that can pervade one's thoughts. Through this introspective exploration, Queen expands the song's theme to include the significance of overcoming personal challenges as well.The repeated cries of "Action, action, give me action" and "Give it to me, give it to me right now" further emphasize the desire for immediate change and empowerment. They serve as a call to arms, urging individuals to demand action and assert their own will.In conclusion, "Action This Day" by Queen remains a captivating and thought-provoking song that addresses the struggle of living in a world that can be exploitative and manipulative. The lyrics deeply engage with themes of personal agency, inner battles, and the need for immediate action. Through their imaginative and artistic approach, Queen successfully conveys the urgency and importance of taking control of one's life and breaking free from the constraints that society may impose. This electrifying anthem serves as a constant reminder for listeners to embrace their power, evoke change, and make every moment count.