Meaning of "Clean, Clean" by Buggles

"Clean, Clean" delves into the gritty realities of war, portraying the harrowing experiences of soldiers like Pogo Johnny who are caught in the midst of conflict. The references to driving a halftrack, facing danger, and struggling to keep the fighting clean allude to the challenges and complexities of warfare. The song seems to highlight the physical and emotional toll of combat, with lyrics touching on exhaustion, injury, and the grim inevitability of casualties. There is a sense of resignation in the repeated refrain of "Clean, clean," suggesting a desensitization to loss and destruction that often accompanies wartime experiences. The character of Pogo Johnny represents the ordinary soldier grappling with these extraordinary circumstances, caught between duty and the brutal realities of armed conflict. Overall, "Clean, Clean" serves as a poignant commentary on the brutal nature of war, exploring themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the struggle to find order in chaos.