Neat, Neat, Neat

The Damned's song 'Neat, Neat, Neat' is a punk rock anthem that encapsulates the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the late 1970s punk movement. The lyrics are a chaotic blend of imagery and statements that reflect a sense of disillusionment and defiance against societal norms and expectations. The repeated phrase 'neat, neat, neat' serves as a sarcastic commentary on the idea of order and neatness, which punk culture often rejected in favor of chaos and anarchy.

The song opens with a series of paradoxical statements, such as 'Be a man can a mystery man' and 'Be a doll be a baby doll,' which highlight the confusion and contradictions inherent in societal roles and expectations. The lyrics suggest that these roles are restrictive and ultimately unfulfilling, as indicated by lines like 'It can't be fun not anyway' and 'It can't be found no way at all.' This sense of disillusionment is further emphasized by the mention of a 'distant man' who 'can't sympathize' and 'can't uphold his distant laws,' suggesting a disconnect between authority figures and the individuals they govern.

The chorus, with its repeated assertion that 'she can't afford a cannon' and 'she ain't got no name to call,' underscores a sense of powerlessness and anonymity. The inability to afford a weapon symbolizes a lack of means to fight back against oppression, while having 'no name to call' suggests a loss of identity and individuality. The instrumental break in the middle of the song adds to the chaotic and frenetic energy, reflecting the inner turmoil and restlessness described in the lyrics.

Overall, 'Neat, Neat, Neat' is a powerful expression of punk rock's core themes of rebellion, disillusionment, and the rejection of societal norms. The Damned's raw and energetic performance captures the essence of a generation that sought to break free from the constraints of conventional society and forge its own path.