Great Southern Land
by ICEHOUSE
What is “Great Southern Land” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Great Southern Land” by ICEHOUSE is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Great Southern Land by ICEHOUSE evokes the profound beauty and harsh realities of Australia, exploring its vast landscapes and history of colonization that have shaped its identity.
So… what’s this song really about?
Great Southern Land is a powerful song that serves as both a tribute and a criticism of Australia's complex sociopolitical landscape. The lyrics convey a deep connection to the land, touching on themes of isolation, colonization, and resilience. The repetition of ‘Great southern land’ throughout the song emphasizes acceptance and reverence to the country’s immensity and cultural significance. The mention of the land being 'burned black' and reshaped 'with rocks and sand' symbolizes the transformation and sometimes the exploitation of Australia's natural resources and indigenous heritage over the centuries. Through vivid imagery, the song captures the haunting beauty of the Australian landscape, while also critiquing the processes by which this beauty has been both marred and preserved over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who wrote and performed Great Southern Land?
Great Southern Land was written and performed by ICEHOUSE, an Australian rock band led by Iva Davies.
Q: What year was Great Southern Land released?
Great Southern Land was released in 1982.
Lyrics to “Great Southern Land”
18 ContributorsGreat Southern Land Lyrics
[Bridge]
I hear the sound
Of the strangers' voices
I see their hungry eyes
Their hungry eyes
[Chorus]
Great southern land
Great southern land
They burned you black
Black against the ground
[Verse 3]
Standing at the limit of an endless ocean
Stranded like a runaway lost at sea
City on a rainy day down in the harbour
Watching as the grey clouds shadow the bay
Looking everywhere 'cause I had to find you
This is not the way that I remember it here
Anyone will tell you it's a prisoner island
Hidden in the summer for a million years
[Chorus]
Great southern land
In the sleeping sun
You walk alone
With the ghost of time
Well, they burned you black
Black against the ground
And they make it work
With rocks and sand
[Bridge]
I hear the sound
Of the strangers' voices
I see their hungry eyes
Their hungry eyes
[Chorus]
Great southern land
Great southern land
You walk alone
Like a primitive man
You walk alone
With the ghost of time
And they burned you black
Yeah, they burned you black
Great southern land
[Outro]
Great southern land
Great southern land
Great southern land