Meaning of Down All The Days by The Pogues

The Pogues' song titled 'Down All The Days' is a captivating piece that delves into various themes of struggle, perseverance, and the power of art as a means of expressing oneself. Through its captivating lyrics, the song explores the life of Christy Brown, an acclaimed Irish painter and writer who overcame physical disabilities to achieve greatness.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Christy Brown a clown around town, now he's a man of renown from Dingle to Down." This line introduces Christy Brown as a local entertainer who eventually gains fame and recognition for his artistic talents. This theme of transformation and the triumph of the underdog resonates throughout the song, highlighting the power of perseverance and self-belief.The line "I type with my toes, suck stout through my nose, and where it's gonna end, God only knows" showcases Brown's physical disabilities, specifically his ability to type and create art using his toes. It emphasizes the unique and unconventional methods he employs to express himself, defying societal expectations and limitations. This lyric conveys the importance of embracing one's own identity and finding innovative ways to showcase talent and creativity.The repeated verse "Down all the days, the tap-tap-tapping of the typewriter pays, the gentle rattling of the drays" raises the theme of commitment and dedication to one's craft. The tap-tap-tapping of the typewriter symbolizes the relentless pursuit of artistic expression, while the gentle rattling of the drays represents the journey and hard work required to achieve success. Through this recurring motif, the song emphasizes the significance of consistency and the willingness to put in the necessary effort to achieve one's goals.Another unexpected theme that emerges from the lyrics is the idea of reliance on the kindness of strangers. The line "I have often had to depend upon the kindliness of strangers" suggests that throughout his journey, Christy Brown, like many artists, relied on the support and encouragement of others. This theme explores the vulnerability and interconnectedness of the human experience and highlights the importance of community and empathy in fostering creativity and personal growth.Finally, the lyric "But I've never been asked and I never replied if I supported Glasgow Rangers" introduces the theme of individuality and the rejection of conformity. Christy Brown's refusal to conform to societal expectations, even in a simple question about a football team, represents his steadfast commitment to his own unique path. This theme reminds us of the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing one's individuality, even in the face of societal pressures and expectations.In conclusion, 'Down All The Days' by The Pogues is a captivating and thought-provoking song that explores various themes including perseverance, transformation, self-expression, community, and individuality. Through its evocative lyrics, the song pays tribute to the life and artistic journey of Christy Brown, while also reminding listeners of the universal struggles and triumphs we all face. It serves as a powerful reminder to embrace our uniqueness, celebrate our individuality, and embrace our own creative journeys, wherever they may lead.