I've loved this song since it came out and, after hearing it on the radio this morning, thought I would have a look into its meaning and was surprised to find that there was little about. Anyway, here are my thoughts - feel free to disagree if you want.
The song is split into the countries of the UK. Verse 1 is a reflection of Scotland (Jocks). 'Ten long years and he's still got her' I take to be a reflection of Margaret Thatcher's rule and that being in 'Parochia', Scotland is seen as something of an irrelevance. Could also be some reflection of Edinburgh's position as one of the UK's cultural capital and that it's all well and good, but it doesn't put food on plates.
Second verse reflects Northern Ireland and I would echo the earlier writer's comments about the Troubles. The song was released in 1990 so the 20 year comment ties in with the start of the Troubles. 'Paddy's just a figure of fun' comments on the fact that the Irish are often the butt of British jokes.
Third verse reflects Wales (Taffy). 'Loud sweet voice' is a comment on the male voice choirs of Wales. The Neil in the song must refer to Neil Kinnock who was Welsh leader of the opposition at the time (also a male voice choir singer).
Verse four covers (more loosely) England and verse 5 brings them all together in optimism, with the songs uplifting comments on giving your all. The chorus does the same by reflecting on the past whilst saying that the future can be different.
One final point. I can't help thinking that the 'Worry about it later' line is a knowing nod to the lyrics of Complete Control by The Clash (Mick Jones' former band). The way in which they are sung is similar in both - especially the lengthened 'a' in later.
I've loved this song since it came out and, after hearing it on the radio this morning, thought I would have a look into its meaning and was surprised to find that there was little about. Anyway, here are my thoughts - feel free to disagree if you want.
The song is split into the countries of the UK. Verse 1 is a reflection of Scotland (Jocks). 'Ten long years and he's still got her' I take to be a reflection of Margaret Thatcher's rule and that being in 'Parochia', Scotland is seen as something of an irrelevance. Could also be some reflection of Edinburgh's position as one of the UK's cultural capital and that it's all well and good, but it doesn't put food on plates.
Second verse reflects Northern Ireland and I would echo the earlier writer's comments about the Troubles. The song was released in 1990 so the 20 year comment ties in with the start of the Troubles. 'Paddy's just a figure of fun' comments on the fact that the Irish are often the butt of British jokes.
Third verse reflects Wales (Taffy). 'Loud sweet voice' is a comment on the male voice choirs of Wales. The Neil in the song must refer to Neil Kinnock who was Welsh leader of the opposition at the time (also a male voice choir singer).
Verse four covers (more loosely) England and verse 5 brings them all together in optimism, with the songs uplifting comments on giving your all. The chorus does the same by reflecting on the past whilst saying that the future can be different.
One final point. I can't help thinking that the 'Worry about it later' line is a knowing nod to the lyrics of Complete Control by The Clash (Mick Jones' former band). The way in which they are sung is similar in both - especially the lengthened 'a' in later.