Down Under
by Men At Work
What is “Down Under” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Down Under” by Men At Work is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Down Under' by Men At Work is a vibrant song that captures the essence of Australian identity and the strangeness of encountering familiar cultural elements in foreign lands.
So… what’s this song really about?
Men At Work's 'Down Under' is more than just an upbeat track; it serves as an anthem reflecting on Australian national identity in a global context. The lyrics weave tales of a traveler who encounters various characters and scenarios that underscore the ubiquity of Australian culture, from a man offering a Vegemite sandwich to the menacing thrill of the land where 'women glow and men plunder'. Through these encounters, the song underscores themes of national pride, cultural export, and the surreal, sometimes disorienting experience of finding one’s cultural markers in unexpected corners of the world.
The song's recurring refrains like 'Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?' invoke the powerful and often untameable spirit of Australia, symbolizing both its ancient heritage and the bold demeanor of its people. The phrase 'You better run, you better take cover' humorously plays on the stereotypes of Australia's rugged landscape and perilous wildlife, further celebrating the formidably playful spirit of Australians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the Vegemite sandwich in 'Down Under'?
The Vegemite sandwich represents an iconic Australian product, serving as a cultural symbol to highlight the traveler's connection to Australia even while abroad.
Q: What does the thunder symbolize in the song 'Down Under'?
The thunder in 'Down Under' symbolizes the powerful and wild spirit of Australia, reinforcing themes of national identity and the untamed nature of the Australian landscape.
Lyrics to “Down Under”
110 ContributorsTranslations
[Instrumental Break]
[Verse 3]
Lyin' in a den in Bombay
With a slack jaw, and not much to say
I said to the man, "Are you trying to tempt me?
Because I come from the land of plenty"
And he said
[Chorus]
"Oh, do you come from a land down under?" Oh yeah, yeah
"Where women glow and men plunder
Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder? Oh
You better run, you better take cover"
'Cause we are living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder
(Yeah, thunder, thunder) Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?
You better, better run, you better take cover
Living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder
Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder? Oh, yeah
You better run, you better take cover
We are living in a land down under, yeah, yeah
Where women glow and men plunder
(Can you, can you hear the thunder?) Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover
Living in a land down under (Living in a land down under)
Where women glow and men plunder
(Oh, hear) Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder?