Meaning of What It Is - Mark Knopfler
In "What It Is", Mark Knopfler paints a vivid picture of a city, where people are struggling to cope with the harsh realities of life. The song is a poignant exploration of human existence, and how we all search for solace in the midst of chaos.
As the song begins, we're transported to a scene of revelry, where the drinking dens are spilling out onto the streets. People are staggering about, lads and lasses falling over, and a crackling energy fills the air. The atmosphere is electric, but beneath the surface, there's a sense of desperation, as people seek solace in drink or human connection.
At its core, "What It Is" is a song about the search for comfort and companionship in a cold and unforgiving world. Knopfler masterfully weaves together threads of despair, hope, and resilience to create a rich tapestry of human experience. The song is also a scathing critique of societal ills, from government neglect to the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
Throughout the song, Knopfler uses vivid imagery to convey the sense of disillusionment and desperation that pervades modern life. He draws parallels between the struggles of everyday people and those who are more visibly affected by the system's failures – like the legless and asleep, who are forced to confront their circumstances on a daily basis. The repetition of the phrase "it's what it is" becomes a refrain, highlighting the resignation that often accompanies the realization that there may be no escape from one's circumstances.
As we delve deeper into the song, we find moments of introspection, where Knopfler explores his own relationship with the world. He muses about what he could do with someone, hinting at a desire to connect on a deeper level. This sense of universality – the yearning for human connection in a chaotic world – is something that resonates deeply with listeners.
Knopfler's mastery of language is evident throughout the song. He effortlessly weaves together cultural references, from Wee Willie Winkie to Charlotte Street, to create a richly textured narrative. The nod to Dickens' Little Nell adds a layer of depth and pathos, underscoring the struggles faced by those on the margins.
"What It Is" is a powerful exploration of human existence, one that finds beauty in the darkness and despair. Knopfler's poetic brilliance shines through in his use of language, as he paints a vivid picture of a world that is both familiar and yet, utterly unique. The song is a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the complexities of human experience, and it continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
As the song begins, we're transported to a scene of revelry, where the drinking dens are spilling out onto the streets. People are staggering about, lads and lasses falling over, and a crackling energy fills the air. The atmosphere is electric, but beneath the surface, there's a sense of desperation, as people seek solace in drink or human connection.
At its core, "What It Is" is a song about the search for comfort and companionship in a cold and unforgiving world. Knopfler masterfully weaves together threads of despair, hope, and resilience to create a rich tapestry of human experience. The song is also a scathing critique of societal ills, from government neglect to the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
Throughout the song, Knopfler uses vivid imagery to convey the sense of disillusionment and desperation that pervades modern life. He draws parallels between the struggles of everyday people and those who are more visibly affected by the system's failures – like the legless and asleep, who are forced to confront their circumstances on a daily basis. The repetition of the phrase "it's what it is" becomes a refrain, highlighting the resignation that often accompanies the realization that there may be no escape from one's circumstances.
As we delve deeper into the song, we find moments of introspection, where Knopfler explores his own relationship with the world. He muses about what he could do with someone, hinting at a desire to connect on a deeper level. This sense of universality – the yearning for human connection in a chaotic world – is something that resonates deeply with listeners.
Knopfler's mastery of language is evident throughout the song. He effortlessly weaves together cultural references, from Wee Willie Winkie to Charlotte Street, to create a richly textured narrative. The nod to Dickens' Little Nell adds a layer of depth and pathos, underscoring the struggles faced by those on the margins.
"What It Is" is a powerful exploration of human existence, one that finds beauty in the darkness and despair. Knopfler's poetic brilliance shines through in his use of language, as he paints a vivid picture of a world that is both familiar and yet, utterly unique. The song is a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the complexities of human experience, and it continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
