What's Up?

Amy Macdonald's rendition of 'What's Up?' is a poignant exploration of existential angst and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The song opens with the singer reflecting on her life at twenty-five, still striving to climb the 'great big hill of hope' in search of a destination. This metaphorical hill represents the challenges and aspirations that one faces in life, and the destination symbolizes a sense of purpose or fulfillment. The realization that the world is built on a 'brotherhood of man' hints at a desire for unity and understanding, though the phrase 'for whatever that means' suggests a sense of disillusionment or confusion about this ideal.

The chorus, with its repeated cry of 'What's going on?' captures a universal feeling of frustration and bewilderment. The act of screaming from the top of one's lungs is a powerful expression of the need to be heard and understood. This emotional outburst is a cathartic release, a way to cope with the overwhelming thoughts and feelings that plague the singer. The repetition of 'Hey, yeah, yeah' adds to the song's anthemic quality, making it a rallying cry for anyone who has ever felt lost or misunderstood.

In the verses, the singer's efforts to 'try all the time in this institution' and her daily prayers for 'revolution' reflect a deep yearning for change and improvement. The institution could symbolize societal structures or personal circumstances that feel confining or oppressive. The mention of prayer indicates a search for spiritual solace or divine intervention in the face of these struggles. The song's cyclical structure, ending as it began with the singer still climbing that hill of hope, underscores the ongoing nature of this quest for meaning and the resilience required to keep going despite the challenges.