The speaker describes a landscape from a distance, observing the different elements such as houses, schools, factories, and farmlands. They express their disdain for the way these people live and their unwillingness to be a part of it. They criticize the simplicity and conformity they see in the lives of those below. The speaker also voices their weariness of travel and desire to be somewhere else.

Meaning of "The Big Country" by Talking Heads

"The Big Country" by Talking Heads explores themes of alienation, judgment, and longing for something different. The lyrics depict a disconnected observer looking down on a landscape and its inhabitants from above, emphasizing a sense of superiority and judgment toward a way of life that doesn't align with their own values or desires. The repetitive refrain of "I wouldn't live there if you paid me" highlights the speaker's disdain for the perceived small-mindedness and conformity of those they observe. There is a sense of arrogance in the speaker's perspective, as they believe their own way of life is superior and reject the possibility of finding any value or satisfaction in the lives of those they see below. This song can be read as a critique of narrow-minded judgment and a reflection on the longing for something different and the dissatisfaction that can accompany it. The repetition of nonsensical syllables at the end of the song ("Goo-goo, ga-ga-ga") could represent the speaker's frustration and resignation, realizing the futility of their judgment and longing.