I Started A Joke
Faith No More
The Irony of Misunderstood Intentions: Faith No More's 'I Started A Joke'
Faith No More's rendition of 'I Started A Joke' is a cover of the original song by the Bee Gees, which was released in 1968. The song's lyrics are a poignant reflection on unintended consequences and the irony of life's situations. The protagonist of the song tells a story of starting a joke that made the whole world cry, only to realize too late that the joke was actually on them. This realization brings a sense of personal sorrow, as the narrator begins to cry, which then paradoxically causes the world to laugh.
The song's narrative continues with the speaker examining their own actions and the regret they feel for things they've said. The imagery of looking at the skies and running hands over their eyes suggests a desire for introspection and a search for forgiveness or understanding. The ultimate irony comes with the narrator's death, which prompts the world to start living, highlighting the contrast between the individual's suffering and the world's indifference or even joy.
Faith No More's interpretation of the song may bring a different flavor to the original, potentially infusing it with their own style and emotional delivery. The band, known for their eclectic mix of alternative metal, funk, and experimental rock, often explores themes of emotional struggle and the human condition, which aligns with the introspective and melancholic nature of 'I Started A Joke'. The song's lyrics resonate with themes of irony, the human experience of misunderstanding, and the solitary nature of personal grief.