Meaning of "Wind-Up Toys" by The Electric Prunes

The lyrics of "Wind-Up Toys" speak to the idea of humans being mere pawns in a world that often sees them as disposable and replaceable. The imagery of wind-up toys coming to life and walking around with plastic faces hiding their emotions conveys the idea that people are often expected to perform without truly experiencing or expressing their true feelings. The reference to children beating a hollow drum symbolizes the repetitive nature of life and the idea that we are often following a pre-determined path set by society or external influences. The constant winding up and putting away of the toys represents the cyclical nature of human existence and how we are often expected to conform to certain roles and expectations. Ultimately, the lyrics highlight the idea that in a world that sees us as not real, we must strive to break free from these constraints and live authentically.