21st Century Man

Electric Light Orchestra's '21st Century Man' delves into the complexities and contradictions of modern life. The song juxtaposes the advancements and opportunities of the 21st century with the emotional and existential struggles that persist despite technological progress. The opening lines, 'A penny in your pocket, Suitcase in your hand,' evoke a sense of simplicity and nostalgia, contrasting sharply with the futuristic imagery of flying across cities and rising above the land. This sets the stage for the central theme: the paradox of progress.

The lyrics highlight the duality of the modern experience. On one hand, the 21st-century man has unprecedented capabilities and freedoms, symbolized by the ability to 'do 'most anything.' On the other hand, these advancements do not necessarily lead to happiness or fulfillment. The lines 'Though you ride on the wheels of tomorrow, You still wander the fields of your sorrow' poignantly capture this dichotomy. The song suggests that despite technological and societal advancements, emotional and existential challenges remain unresolved.

The chorus further explores this theme by depicting the 21st-century man as a figure of fluctuating fortunes—'One day you're a hero, Next day you're a clown.' This instability underscores the uncertainty and volatility of modern life. The song also questions the notion of progress itself, as seen in the lines 'Things ain't how you thought they were, Nothing have you planned.' Ultimately, '21st Century Man' serves as a reflective commentary on the human condition in an age of rapid change, urging listeners to consider the true cost of progress and the enduring nature of human sorrow.