The lyrics describe a woman who enjoys being in the sun, tanning and relaxing in the heat, while the narrator notices her bleached hair, tan skin, and love for luxury items like a deluxe car. The repeated refrain emphasizes that they are heading for a heatwave.

Read more
image

Meaning of "Heatwave" by XTC


The lyrics of "Heatwave" by XTC seem to be describing a woman who is obsessed with tanning and the sun, to the point where she is almost addicted to it. The imagery of her bleached hair, browned skin, and relaxed state in the conservatory paints a picture of someone who places a high value on appearances and leisurely activities. The mention of a MKII deluxe implies that she also values material possessions and status symbols. The repetition of the line "We're heading for a heatwave" could be a metaphor for the intensity of her fixation on tanning and luxury, as well as a warning of potential consequences from excessive sun exposure. Overall, the lyrics seem to be a commentary on societal pressures to conform to beauty standards and the consequences of valuing superficial things over deeper connections or personal well-being.