A brilliant bit of sci-fi in the tradition of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers". The drones try to explain to the last few hold-outs that their way (mindless, hypnotic conformity) is best, but it matters little whether they are convinced, because the bells will take over in the end.
"Invasion of the Body Snatchers" was really about the Red Scare (communism or McCarthy-ism... take your pick), but "The Bells Are Ringing" seems like it could be about pop music, and the conformity found among fans of any given genre. Britney Spears is compelling you to drink Pepsi. They Might Be Giants are turning you into a cynical, campy, indie-rock geek. The very song warning you of this phenomenon could also be part of it. Spooky.
A brilliant bit of sci-fi in the tradition of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers". The drones try to explain to the last few hold-outs that their way (mindless, hypnotic conformity) is best, but it matters little whether they are convinced, because the bells will take over in the end.
"Invasion of the Body Snatchers" was really about the Red Scare (communism or McCarthy-ism... take your pick), but "The Bells Are Ringing" seems like it could be about pop music, and the conformity found among fans of any given genre. Britney Spears is compelling you to drink Pepsi. They Might Be Giants are turning you into a cynical, campy, indie-rock geek. The very song warning you of this phenomenon could also be part of it. Spooky.