What's Next To The Moon
AC/DC
Love, Desperation, and the Edge of Sanity: Decoding AC/DC's 'What's Next To The Moon'
AC/DC's 'What's Next To The Moon' is a compelling blend of rock energy and lyrical storytelling that delves into themes of love, desperation, and the brink of sanity. The song's narrative is driven by vivid imagery and metaphorical references, creating a sense of urgency and emotional turmoil. The protagonist's actions and thoughts are extreme, reflecting a deep sense of frustration and longing for a woman's love, which he feels is slipping away.
The opening lines set a dramatic scene with the protagonist tying his lover to a railroad track, a classic trope symbolizing a desperate attempt to regain control or attention. This act of desperation is juxtaposed with the mundane thoughts of the train engineer, highlighting the protagonist's isolation in his emotional turmoil. The chorus, repeating the phrase 'It's she love that I want,' underscores the central theme of the song: an intense, almost obsessive need for love and validation from the woman.
The second verse introduces a superhero metaphor, with references to Superman and Clark Kent. This imagery suggests a longing for rescue or escape from the protagonist's emotional plight. The line 'It's a bird, it's a plane, it's - a suicide' starkly contrasts the heroic imagery with a sense of hopelessness, indicating the protagonist's mental and emotional decline. The final verse brings in a detective motif, with the 'Long Arm' searching for clues and the protagonist confessing to a crime he didn't intend to commit. This could symbolize the internal conflict and guilt he feels over his actions and emotions.
AC/DC's raw musical style, characterized by powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals, amplifies the song's emotional intensity. 'What's Next To The Moon' is a poignant exploration of the darker sides of love and the lengths to which one might go when driven by desperation and longing.