Meaning of "Wake Me, Shake Me" by The Coasters

"Wake Me, Shake Me" by The Coasters portrays the daily grind and struggles of the working class. The repetition of the need to wake up emphasizes the pressure and anxiety associated with meeting work obligations. The references to a garbage truck and picking up cans symbolize the mundane, repetitive nature of the individual's job, highlighting the monotony and lack of fulfillment in their work. The dream sequence where the garbage trucks are chasing after the protagonist could represent the feeling of being constantly pursued by the demands of work, even invading one's dreams. The portrayal of the boss as a "big, fat slob" adds a touch of humor but also showcases the dehumanizing power dynamics in the workplace. Overall, the lyrics capture the frustration, fatigue, and lack of control that many individuals face in their jobs, reflecting on the impact of work on one's sense of self and well-being.