30 Century Man Lyrics

Lyric discussion by LarryDoby 

Cover art for 30 Century Man lyrics by Scott Walker

I think this song is about indecision, and justification of cowardice.

Your choices can make you a "dwarf" or a "giant", and if you cannot figure out what choice to make you can "freeze like a 30th Century Man."

I think the song evokes Charles De Gaulle because he played a background role in World War II. He was in exile most of the time, playing the role mostly of a symbol of freedom. Not until the war was over did he come to any substantial power.

That model of power is to "play it cool and Saran wrap what you can." Wait out whatever conflict is calling for you to make a choice. History will vindicate you.

Of course there is a healthy amount of sarcasm and irony at play here. If you choice not to choice how can you be a giant? I think Walker is telling us it is okay not to be bold, that it is okay to escape, and I think he is saying it both tongue and cheek, and with a mournful tone.

My Interpretation