The Post War Dream

Pink Floyd's song 'The Post War Dream' is a poignant reflection on the disillusionment and broken promises that followed World War II. The song opens with a series of news snippets, setting a grim tone by highlighting issues such as nuclear fallout shelters, the Falklands conflict, and rising violence in Third World countries. These references serve as a backdrop to the main narrative, which questions the sacrifices made during the war and the subsequent direction taken by society.

The lyrics delve into deeply personal and existential questions, asking why Jesus was crucified and whether the sacrifices made by soldiers, like the narrator's father, were in vain. The line 'Was it for you? Was it me? Did I watch too much TV?' suggests a sense of guilt and complicity, as if the narrator feels responsible for the current state of the world. This introspection is further emphasized by the accusatory tone perceived in the eyes of others, indicating a collective sense of betrayal and disappointment.

The song also critiques economic and social policies, particularly those under the leadership of Margaret Thatcher, referred to as 'Maggie.' The mention of Japanese shipbuilding prowess and the decline of British shipyards on the Clyde highlights the economic shifts and job losses that have left many feeling abandoned. The rising suicide rates among Japanese youth are juxtaposed with the loss of industrial jobs in Britain, painting a bleak picture of global disillusionment. The repeated questioning of 'What have we done?' and 'What happened to the post-war dream?' underscores a longing for the idealistic visions of a better future that were promised but never realized.

Ultimately, 'The Post War Dream' is a powerful critique of the socio-political landscape of the 1980s, capturing the sense of loss and disillusionment felt by many. It serves as a reminder of the unfulfilled promises and the harsh realities that have replaced the hopeful dreams of a post-war world.