It Came Out Of The Sky

Creedence Clearwater Revival's song 'It Came Out Of The Sky' is a satirical commentary on society's reaction to extraordinary events. The song tells the story of a farmer named Jody who witnesses a mysterious object landing near his farm. His initial reaction is one of fear and disbelief, as he falls out of his tractor and runs to town screaming about what he saw. This sets the stage for a series of exaggerated responses from various societal institutions and figures, each interpreting the event through their own lens.

The song humorously critiques how different sectors of society exploit or manipulate such events for their own purposes. Scientists dismiss the phenomenon as marsh gas, while politicians like Spiro Agnew use it to justify raising taxes. The Vatican interprets it as a divine sign, and Hollywood sees it as an opportunity for a blockbuster film. Even Ronald Reagan, referred to as 'Ronnie the Popular,' spins it as a communist plot. This array of reactions highlights the absurdity and opportunism often present in societal responses to the unknown or unexplained.

The second verse continues this satirical narrative by showing how Jody becomes a national hero, with media outlets and government institutions vying for control over the mysterious object. The White House wants to display it, the Vatican claims it belongs to Rome, and Jody himself sees a financial opportunity, offering to sell it for seventeen million dollars. This part of the song underscores the commercialization and sensationalism that often accompany such events, turning a simple farmer's experience into a national spectacle.

Through its witty lyrics and catchy melody, 'It Came Out Of The Sky' serves as a critique of how society, media, and institutions react to extraordinary occurrences. The song uses humor and satire to expose the underlying motivations and absurdities in these reactions, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners even today.