Soldiers

ABBA's song 'Soldiers' delves into the often overlooked and unsettling realities of war. The lyrics open with a sense of foreboding, questioning whether the signs of impending conflict are real or just a figment of imagination. The imagery of a 'beast waking' and the 'cold December' sets a chilling tone, suggesting that the threat of war is both imminent and inevitable. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the roles and responsibilities of soldiers, who are portrayed as the unseen and unheard voices in the narrative of war.

The chorus emphasizes that soldiers are the ones who 'write the songs' and 'sing the songs' that the general populace does not. This metaphor highlights the idea that soldiers bear the brunt of war's harsh realities, while the rest of society remains largely detached and unaware. The act of blowing horns, marching, and drumming symbolizes the outward display of strength and unity, masking the underlying chaos and suffering. The repetition of the phrase 'you’d think that nothing in the world was wrong' serves as a poignant reminder of the disconnect between the soldiers' experiences and the public's perception.

The song also serves as a call to action, urging listeners not to 'look the other way' and to acknowledge the sacrifices made by soldiers. The line 'if the bugler starts to play, we too must dance' suggests that war affects everyone, and ignoring it is not an option. The recurring theme of a 'cold December' reinforces the idea that the memory of war and its consequences linger long after the battles have ended. Through 'Soldiers,' ABBA not only pays tribute to the men and women in uniform but also challenges us to confront the uncomfortable truths about war and our collective responsibility in it.