Meaning of "The Post War Dream" by Pink Floyd

The lyrics in "The Post War Dream" delve into a critical analysis of society and the government, using various news headlines to highlight issues related to power, war, and its aftermath. The line "Tell me true, tell me why was Jesus crucified" raises questions about the true motives and consequences of human actions, mirroring the crucifixion of Jesus as a symbol of sacrifice for the greater good. This leads to the questioning of whether sacrifices made in society, such as the death of the narrator's father, were truly necessary or just a result of misguided decisions. The mention of watching too much TV implies the distracting and manipulative nature of media, potentially leading to ignorance and apathy towards important social issues.

The reference to the "Nips," a derogatory term for the Japanese, building ships emphasizes the economic decline of certain regions. The mention of shipyards closing on the Clyde indicates the consequences of global competition and outsourcing, resulting in unemployment and despair among workers. The line "With all their kids committing suicide" highlights the desperation and hopelessness faced by these communities, likely due to lack of economic opportunities and societal support.

The questioning of "Maggie" is a direct reference to former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, known for her conservative policies and controversial decisions. The chorus repeats the question, "What have we done?" expressing the collective responsibility and guilt felt by the narrator and society as a whole. The lyrics reflect on the idea that the post-war dream, a vision of a better and more just world that emerged after World War II, has been lost or forgotten. The disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the direction of England are palpable.

Overall, "The Post War Dream" serves as a critique of government actions, economic decline, media influence, and the erosion of societal values. It questions the motivations and consequences of human choices while expressing a sense of collective guilt and longing for a lost ideal.