Meaning of Modernise - The Slow Readers Club
The Slow Readers Club's song "Modernise" offers a profound reflection on the pressure and expectations inherent in contemporary society. Laden with themes of ambition, anxiety, and societal conformity, the lyrics present a poignant portrayal of the struggles encountered by individuals as they navigate the complexities of modern life.
From its opening lines, "It's time to modernise. Now listen son you've got to up your game, there's a world of prying eyes," the song sets a tone steeped in the urgency to conform to societal norms and expectations. Here, the reference to "prying eyes" underscores the pervasive scrutiny individuals face in a society that often prioritizes external appearances and achievements.
Throughout the composition, a palpable sense of urgency and desperation permeates, as evidenced in phrases like "Debt multiplies" and "Those winds of fortune never blew my way, now I'm old before my time." These verses encapsulate the struggle to keep pace with societal demands while grappling with financial burdens and the relentless passage of time.
The recurring refrain, "Oh lord I'm nervous, the pressure here it starts to freak me out," resonates with the anxiety and apprehension many individuals experience as they endeavor to meet the expectations imposed by society, and perhaps even by themselves. The weight of striving to succeed and "modernise" becomes overwhelming, evoking feelings of unease and fear.
Moreover, the song addresses the yearning for guidance and support amid adversity, as reflected in lines such as "I'm with you through the pleasure and the pain, pray the lord he will provide." Here, there is a plea for assistance and reassurance, whether from a divine source or from within one's own resolve.
In its final verses, "Modernise" underscores the pressure to conform to conventional markers of success, such as securing employment and relationships, while subtly hinting at the toll this pressure exacts on individuals' mental well-being. The repetition of directives like "Get a job, find a girl, hurry up, don't be late" serves to emphasize the relentless nature of societal expectations.
In conclusion, "Modernise" by The Slow Readers Club offers a poignant exploration of the challenges individuals face in a society that often prioritizes external validation and conformity. Through its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, the song serves as a compelling commentary on the pressures to modernize and conform, while also shedding light on the toll it can take on mental health and well-being.
