Meaning of What Shall We Do Now? by Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd's song "What Shall We Do Now?" presents listeners with a thought-provoking piece that delves into the inner workings of modern society. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the desire for fulfillment and purpose in a world plagued by emptiness and a constant need for validation. Through its lyrics, the song explores various facets of this theme, creatively touching on unexpected and imaginative ideas that contribute to the overall message.The opening lyrics, "What shall we use to fill the empty spaces, where waves of hunger roar?" immediately set the tone for the song. It reflects the longing for something to fill the void within ourselves and the world around us. This theme of emptiness and lack of fulfillment serves as a powerful backdrop for the subsequent lyrics that delve into different ways people attempt to find meaning and happiness.In the verse, "Shall we set out across this sea of faces, in search of more and more applause?" Pink Floyd invites us to consider the pursuit of validation and attention. In a society driven by social media and a constant need for external approval, this lyric explores the lengths people are willing to go to gain recognition and applause from others. It suggests that the search for validation often leads individuals to lose sight of what truly matters in life.The line, "Shall we buy a new guitar? Shall we drive a more powerful car?" delves into the consumerist mindset prevalent in society. It questions the idea that material possessions can bring true happiness and fulfillment. The lyrics highlight how individuals often turn to materialism as a way to fill the void within themselves, but in reality, true fulfillment cannot be achieved through material wealth alone.Another thought-provoking lyric is, "Shall we get into fights? Leave the lights on? Drop bombs?" This particular line touches on the destructive tendencies present within humanity. It raises questions about the choices we make and the impact they have on our own lives and the world around us. It suggests that sometimes, people seek purpose in destructive actions, mistaking chaos for meaning.The lyric, "Do tours of the East? Contract diseases? Bury bones?" delves into the idea of seeking novelty and adventure as a way to find fulfillment. It explores how some individuals may embark on adventurous journeys or engage in risky behaviors in search of excitement and meaning in their lives. However, it also raises the question of whether this pursuit of novelty truly brings lasting contentment or if it is just another temporary distraction.The line, "Break up homes? Send flowers by phone?" encourages reflection on the state of human relationships. It highlights the destructive nature of some actions individuals may take in the pursuit of their own desires. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, connection, and understanding in maintaining healthy relationships and finding fulfillment.The lyrics, "Take to drink? Go to shrinks?" touch on the coping mechanisms people turn to when faced with emptiness and unease. The openness to exploring alternative ways of finding solace suggests a recognition of the complexities of the human experience. It emphasizes the need for individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek support when necessary.The final standout lyric, "Store up leisure but never relax at all, with our backs to the wall," sums up the overarching theme of the song. It captures the paradoxical nature of modern society, where individuals accumulate leisure time but never truly find peace or relaxation. It suggests that even in moments of respite, people are often plagued by anxieties and pressures, leaving them constantly on edge and unable to fully embrace the present.Overall, "What Shall We Do Now?" challenges listeners to reflect on the pursuit of fulfillment in a world that often seems empty and superficial. It touches on various aspects of the human experience, from the search for validation to consumerism, destructive tendencies, and the longing for purpose. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song encourages individuals to question the choices they make and the paths they follow in their own search for meaning. It reminds us to find solace in the present moment rather than constantly seeking external validation or material possessions. In essence, the song encourages a deeper introspection and a reevaluation of our values in order to find true fulfillment and purpose in our lives.