The History Of Everything

Barenaked Ladies' song 'The History Of Everything' is a whirlwind tour through the history of the universe, from the Big Bang to the present day. The lyrics are a rapid-fire recounting of major events in the development of the cosmos, Earth, and human civilization. The song begins with the Big Bang, the event that set the universe into motion, and quickly moves through the cooling of the Earth, the emergence of life, and the evolution of humans. The mention of autotrophs, Neanderthals, and the construction of ancient structures like walls and pyramids highlights key milestones in the history of life and human achievement.

The song emphasizes the brevity of human history in the grand scheme of the universe. The line 'Since the dawn of man is really not that long' underscores how recent human existence is compared to the age of the universe. The lyrics also touch on the formation of galaxies, the extinction of dinosaurs, and the shifting of continents, all set in motion by the same cosmic event. The song's playful tone and rapid pace mirror the vast and dynamic nature of the universe itself.

In addition to recounting historical events, the song delves into the ongoing expansion of the universe and the eventual possibility of its collapse. This scientific perspective is juxtaposed with references to human endeavors in science, religion, and philosophy, such as Descartes and Deuteronomy. The song suggests that all aspects of human knowledge and culture, from music and mythology to Einstein and astrology, are part of the same grand narrative that began with the Big Bang. Through its clever lyrics and catchy melody, 'The History Of Everything' invites listeners to marvel at the complexity and interconnectedness of the universe and our place within it.