What A Day That Was

Talking Heads' song 'What A Day That Was' is a vivid exploration of societal collapse and personal introspection. The lyrics paint a picture of a world in turmoil, where the protagonist is trying to make sense of the chaos around them. The song opens with the protagonist dressed up and trying their best, symbolizing an attempt to start anew amidst the disorder. This sets the stage for a narrative that oscillates between grandiose imagery and stark realities.

The song introduces a 'Big chief with a golden crown,' a metaphor for leadership or authority figures who are disconnected from the struggles of the common people. This character's actions, such as making shapes with his hands and commanding silence, suggest a performative and authoritarian rule. The lyrics then shift to the plight of '50,000 beggars roaming in the streets,' highlighting the stark contrast between the powerful and the powerless. This imagery evokes a sense of societal decay and the failure of leadership to address the needs of the people.

The recurring refrain, 'And on the first day, we had everything we could stand... And on the second day, there was nothing else left to do,' serves as a poignant commentary on the fleeting nature of prosperity and the inevitability of decline. The song's narrative suggests that initial abundance and success can quickly give way to emptiness and despair if not managed wisely. The protagonist's dream of a self-invented city and the subsequent 'big decisions' reflect a desire for control and order in a world that seems to be spiraling out of control. The song concludes with a sense of resignation and acceptance, encapsulated in the lines, 'Ooh what a day that was,' acknowledging the cyclical nature of human endeavors and the constant struggle to find meaning and stability.