Meaning of "Gates Of Steel" by Devo

"Gates of Steel" is a powerful anthem about rejecting societal norms and embracing one's true self. The song starts by urging listeners to "twist away the gates of steel," metaphorically representing breaking free from the constraints and expectations imposed by society. This notion of unlocking the "secret voice" and giving in to the "ancient noise" suggests that embracing one's true identity requires disregarding societal pressure and following one's instincts and desires instead.

The lyrics then take a jab at the monotonous and conforming nature of human existence. The line "The Earth, it moves too slow, but the Earth is all we know" suggests that even though life may feel sluggish and unexciting, it is all we have and must be embraced. The reference to "paying to play the human way" further highlights the idea that society requires individuals to conform and participate in societal roles, often at the expense of personal freedom and individuality.

The song highlights the contrast between being human and being made of steel. While the repetition of the line "A man is real, not made of steel" suggests that true human nature is rooted in vulnerability and authenticity, society often pushes individuals to adopt a more robotic and emotionless facade. This sentiment is further reinforced with the line "The ape regards his tail, he's stuck on it, repeats until he fails," which suggests that humans often get caught in a cycle of repetitive behavior, unable to break free from societal expectations.

In the end, "Gates of Steel" celebrates the realness and vulnerability of being human. The repetition of the line "A man is real, that's how he feels" emphasizes the importance of embracing one's true emotions and rejecting the artificial constraints imposed by society. Devo's lyrics encourage individuals to break free from the confines of societal norms, celebrate their unique identities, and live authentically.