Meaning of "Rhythm Of Life" by Oleta Adams

"Rhythm of Life" is a song that urges listeners to prioritize love and spontaneity over rigid plans and routines. The opening lines convey a sense of constantly striving and working hard, while also acknowledging that this constant grind can be exhausting. The juxtaposition of "Climbin' every mountain" and "always killing me" suggests the struggle of trying to achieve goals while feeling drained by the effort. The singer encourages the listener to count the cost as the days go by, emphasizing the importance of being aware of the sacrifices made in pursuit of success.

The lyrics then suggest a longing for an escape from this routine. "Monday I've got Friday on my mind" conveys the desire to break free from the constraints of the workweek and indulge in the excitement and freedom associated with Fridays. The line "Why don't we make love instead of making plans" further emphasizes the need for human connection and intimacy as opposed to focusing solely on career aspirations.

The song then touches on the relationship between humanity and the natural world. "Mother Nature, Father Time, maybe it's the family of man" suggests a sense of interconnectedness and unity. The mention of angels crying when they hear a particular tune and the sleepless nights of the man in the moon further adds to this theme of connectedness, implying that even celestial beings are affected by the rhythm of life.

The lyrics shift focus to the wish for a better future, particularly for young girls. "Give the girl a future, give her what she needs, teach her life's a long flat road" highlights the desire for future generations to have better opportunities and luck than the singer did. The line "Work so hard, but this man's a fool" suggests a reflection on the struggles of everyday people who work tirelessly but still struggle to find financial stability or success.

Overall, "Rhythm of Life" conveys a longing for a more spontaneous and loving existence, while acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of providing a brighter future for future generations.