Meaning of "Walk It Down" by Talking Heads

The lyrics of "Walk It Down" by Talking Heads touch on themes of identity, survival, togetherness, and the pursuit of ecstasy against the backdrop of a society filled with lies, propaganda, and the crimes of love and understanding. The singer feels trapped in a world where individuality has been reduced to just a number, where surrender seems like the only option, and where the need for togetherness and empathy has become criminalized. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope as the singer longs for deeper connections, memories of belonging, and a sense of shared experiences to turn up the radio and escape the harsh realities of life. The repeated refrain of "Walk it down. Talk it down. Sympathy. Luxury. Somebody will take you there," suggests a longing for someone or something to lead the way towards a better future, where understanding, love, and togetherness prevail over the current state of affairs filled with lies and propaganda. The yearning to fly instead of swim symbolizes a desire to break free from the constraints of society and the status quo to reach new heights of fulfillment and meaning.