Freedom

The song "Freedom" by The La's delves into the complexities and contradictions of modern life, particularly focusing on the loss of freedom in a world overshadowed by conflict and existential dread. The opening lines, "All this world seems bent upon / Contemplating Babylon," suggest a society preoccupied with its own downfall, drawing a parallel to the biblical city of Babylon, often symbolizing decadence and moral decay. The mention of fate being "sealed inside a bomb" underscores the omnipresent threat of destruction, likely alluding to nuclear warfare or other forms of mass violence. This sets a grim tone, questioning, "Where has all the freedom gone?"

The second stanza offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that there is a place for everyone in the grand scheme of things, encapsulated in the phrase "Live and die our Kingdom Come." However, this hope is tempered by the reality that until a metaphorical web is spun, symbolizing the completion of some grand design or destiny, people are encouraged to find joy in the present moment: "Everybody must have fun." This could be interpreted as a call to live life to the fullest despite the looming uncertainties.

The final stanza brings a personal touch, with the singer expressing a lack of fear towards death and a plea for divine assistance: "I'm not scared to die - God help me." The shared experiences of schooling and learning the same "rules of lament" highlight a collective sense of disillusionment. The inevitability of fate is emphasized with lines like "The knot will never come undone" and "Accidents show mercy none," suggesting that the outcomes are predetermined and inescapable. The closing lines, "The masterpiece is done / The war has won," leave a haunting impression, indicating that the ultimate battle—whether internal or external—has concluded, and freedom remains an elusive ideal.