Meaning of "Set the World on Fire" by Klaatu

The lyrics of "Set the World on Fire" by Klaatu convey a sense of anger, frustration, and defiance in the face of adversity. The protagonist experiences multiple setbacks, from their car breaking down to being denied access to their paycheck. The repeated refrain of "Gonna set the world on fire" symbolizes a powerful desire to enact a drastic change, to assert control over a world that seems to constantly push them down. The protagonist's internal struggle between feeling the urge to shout out against injustice and the inability to break free from a cycle of acceptance and submission highlights the tension between societal expectations and individual empowerment. Ultimately, the song captures a moment of empowerment when the protagonist decides to no longer accept mistreatment and stands up for themselves, expressing a desire to take control and make their mark on the world.