The Day That Margaret Thatcher Dies

Pete Wylie's song, 'The Day That Margaret Thatcher Dies,' is a raw and unfiltered expression of anger and resentment towards the former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher. The lyrics reflect the deep-seated animosity felt by many who lived through her tenure, particularly those in the working-class communities and regions like the North of England, which were heavily impacted by her policies. The song is a call to celebrate rather than mourn her death, highlighting the pain and suffering attributed to her leadership.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'Hey ho, here we go,' and the celebratory imagery of building bonfires and painting the sky, underscores a sense of liberation and relief. Wylie criticizes the idea of giving Thatcher a state funeral, calling it a waste of money that could be better spent on public services like education. This sentiment reflects the broader discontent with the socio-economic inequalities that many believe were exacerbated by Thatcher's policies.

Wylie also touches on the lasting impact of Thatcher's legacy, referring to 'Thatcher's children' and the 'wicked witch of Westminster.' These lines suggest that the negative effects of her policies continue to be felt, and that the societal divisions she fostered have only deepened. The song's repeated refrain of 'die die die' is a stark and provocative expression of the desire for an end to the era and its lingering consequences. Through its unapologetic tone and vivid imagery, the song captures a moment of catharsis for those who opposed Thatcher's vision for Britain.