What You Gonna Do???

Bastille's song "What You Gonna Do???" delves into the complexities and paradoxes of modern digital life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of individuals like Johnny and Sally, who are deeply entrenched in the digital world. Johnny is described as taking the A-train the wrong way, symbolizing a misguided journey, while appearing shiny on the surface but rotten inside. This metaphor highlights the superficiality and hidden decay that can come with an over-reliance on digital personas and online validation.

The chorus repeatedly asks, "What you gonna do with it?" This question is directed at both the creators of digital content and the consumers. It challenges the listener to consider the power and influence they wield in the digital space. The lines "Make me tap and scroll, you got control, got my attention" emphasize the addictive nature of social media and how it commands our focus, often leading to feelings of paranoia and emptiness, as suggested by the line "Make me paranoid, love me, hate me, fill the void."

Sally's character, who hides behind a screen and claims happiness with her online friends, represents the isolation and false sense of connection that can come from social media. The song critiques the way digital interactions can replace genuine human connections, leaving individuals feeling more isolated despite being constantly 'connected.' The repeated questioning of what one will do with the attention they receive online serves as a call to action, urging listeners to reflect on their digital habits and the real impact of their online presence.