King for a Day

XTC's song 'King for a Day' delves into the superficiality and moral decay that often accompany the pursuit of power and success. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society where individuals are willing to compromise their integrity and humanity to climb the social and economic ladder. The 'money god' symbolizes the worship of wealth and materialism, with people 'creeping up' and 'putting tongues where they didn't ought to be,' indicating sycophantic behavior and moral compromise.

The song critiques a lifestyle that is 'all take and no giving,' highlighting the emptiness and lack of genuine belief or values in such a way of living. The phrase 'the loudest mouth will hail the new found way' suggests that those who are most vocal and aggressive in their pursuit of power are often the ones who succeed, even if their methods are unscrupulous. This is further emphasized by the imagery of 'stepping stones of human hearts and souls,' indicating that people are often trampled upon in the quest for success.

The chorus underscores the futility and transient nature of such pursuits, with the repeated line 'to be king for a day.' This suggests that any power or success gained through these means is fleeting and ultimately unfulfilling. The song also touches on the idea that life is short ('You're only here once so you got to get it right') and that measuring one's life by the suffering or success of others ('life don't mean much if measured out with someone else's plight') is a misguided approach. The 'bad old moon' symbolizes a dark, controlling force that keeps people in its sway, perpetuating a cycle of ambition and dissatisfaction.

Overall, 'King for a Day' serves as a poignant critique of the relentless and often morally bankrupt pursuit of power and success, urging listeners to reconsider what truly matters in life.