Meaning of "Going Underground" by The Jam

"Going Underground" is a protest song that critiques the materialistic and conformist nature of society. The opening lines suggest that some people may view the singer's life as mundane, but he is content with what he has. He rejects the notion that one should constantly strive for more, highlighting that he is happy and fulfilled as he is. This can be seen as a rejection of the capitalist ideals that often drive individuals to relentlessly pursue wealth and status.

The song goes on to criticize society's obsession with money and power. The line "You want more money, of course I don't mind" suggests that while the public may desire more wealth, the singer sees no value in it. He links the desire for money to the potential for destruction, referencing "nuclear textbooks for atomic crimes." This line may allude to the arms race and the threat of nuclear war during the Cold War era, with the singer expressing disapproval of society's priorities.

The chorus, "I'm going underground," represents the singer's desire to escape the superficiality and falsehoods of mainstream society. By going underground, he seeks to distance himself from the noise and chaos of the world above, finding solace in his own thoughts and values. The repetition of this phrase throughout the song emphasizes his determination to reject societal norms and find his own path.

The song also criticizes the media and its role in perpetuating conformity and lies. The line "You choose your leaders and place your trust, as their lies wash you down and their promises rust" suggests that the public's trust in leaders is misguided. The media, portrayed as "braying sheep" on the TV screen, is accused of manipulating the truth and shaping public opinion. This aligns with the song's broader theme of questioning societal values and urging individuals to think for themselves.

In the final verse, the singer mentions how talking about societal issues becomes overwhelming, leading him to turn on the news and feel paralyzed by what he sees. This further emphasizes the need to step away from the mainstream and reject the constant barrage of information that can overwhelm and distort reality.

Ultimately, "Going Underground" advocates for a new generation to rise up and challenge the status quo. The repeated refrain of "let the boys all sing and let the boys all shout for tomorrow" suggests that change can only come from a united front of like-minded individuals. The song portrays a longing for a future where society's values are redefined, authenticity is valued over materialism, and the media is held accountable for its actions.