Meaning of Eyes Wide Open by The B-52's

The B-52's are known for their catchy and eccentric songs, and "Eyes Wide Open" is no exception. With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, this song explores the theme of secret desires and hidden truths. The band invites listeners to delve into a mysterious world, where things may not always be what they seem.The song begins with the idea of a "crazy planet" and the need to rise above it. This could be seen as a metaphor for escaping the mundane and conventional aspects of life. The line "rocky road, got my assignment, rise above, ride my dreams" suggests a sense of determination and a willingness to go against the norm to pursue one's passions and desires."One on one, take a little bite, what I got, you never had" is a standout lyric that speaks to the idea of embracing unique experiences and individuality. It conveys a sense of self-confidence and the willingness to indulge in the unknown. This lyric develops the theme of embracing one's desires and not limiting oneself to societal norms.The repetition of "So good it's bad" in the chorus adds an intriguing layer to the song's themes. The juxtaposition of good and bad suggests that indulging in forbidden desires can be both pleasurable and dangerous. It hints at the allure and excitement of exploring the unconventional or hidden parts of oneself, even if it may lead to unforeseen consequences.The chorus further reinforces the theme of secrecy and hidden desires with the line "Let's go down to our secret place". Here, the band invites the listener to enter a clandestine world where they can freely express their true desires without judgment. This lyric creates a sense of escapism, urging the listener to break free from societal constraints and embrace their innermost longings.The lines "Unexpected, undetected, hiding from those prying eyes" highlight the secretive nature of the song's themes. There is a feeling of wanting to keep these desires hidden, possibly due to societal pressure or fear of judgment. This lyric explores the idea of existing outside the boundaries of normalcy, finding solace in a hidden realm away from prying eyes.As the song progresses, the band sings about the periphery, a place on the outskirts of the mainstream. The lyrics "Livin' on the periphery" and "Living on the periphery" suggest a desire to exist on the margins, where one can freely explore their unconventional desires and be true to themselves. It speaks to the longing for a space where one can fully embrace their unique identity without fear of judgment or prejudice.Throughout the song, various lines discuss the power of words. "Can you feel it? Words are bombs, words are missiles" emphasizes the impact of words and the ability to express one's desires through language. This lyric showcases the potential explosiveness of secret desires and their ability to challenge societal norms.In summary, "Eyes Wide Open" by The B-52's delves into the theme of secret desires and hidden truths. The lyrics of the song explore the allure of embracing the unconventional, the longing for a secret place where one can freely express their true desires, and the impact of words in expressing these hidden truths. The overall message of the song encourages listeners to embrace their unique desires and find solace in living on the periphery, away from the judgmental eyes of society.