Meaning of "Five Get Over Excited" by The Housemartins

The lyrics of "Five Get Over Excited" provide a biting critique of society's obsession with instant gratification and the pursuit of shallow pleasures. The repetition of the phrase "Fun, fun, fun" serves as a sarcastic critique of the superficiality and emptiness of these pursuits. The song begins with a description of James Dean posters on the wall, symbolizing youthful rebellion and the pursuit of excitement, but quickly reveals a tragic end - "five killed in a car crash." This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where each verse introduces a different character who meets a similarly grim fate. These characters are depicted as pursuing various activities for their own sake, without much thought or consideration for the consequences. The lyrics depict a lack of depth and substance in these pursuits, highlighted by the references to pop culture icons like Abba and Thunderbirds.

Through the inclusion of astrology signs and music preferences, the song also mocks societal norms and stereotypes. The singer describes themselves as "mad from Scandinavia," creating a sense of quirkiness and individuality. They express a desire to find someone who is "crazy and Sagittarius" to match their own Leo sign, adding humor to the references of astrology compatibility. The mention of Motown music also serves as a playful reference to the singer's taste in music and highlights their individuality.

Overall, "Five Get Over Excited" offers a critical perspective on society's preoccupation with shallow forms of fun and the pursuit of instant gratification. It suggests that this obsession can lead to dire consequences and lacks true fulfillment. The song also challenges societal norms and stereotypes through its satirical references, highlighting the importance of individuality and authenticity.