Volkswagen Thing

Song Meaning

The lyrics of "Volkswagen Thing" paint a delightfully irreverent picture of divinity, suggesting God cruises around in a humble, adaptable car. This vision immediately contrasts with traditional, grandiose images of the divine. It's a playful, down-to-earth take on the spiritual realm, grounded in everyday observations. The core of the song's humor and insight comes from its sharp contrasts. While God's "Thing" changes color with his mood and "never blocks up the passing lane," Satan is depicted driving a flashy, mean Mercedes that "slams on the brakes on the entrance ramp." This vivid imagery makes the abstract battle of good versus evil feel relatable, like a frustrating encounter on the highway. Perhaps the most clever craft element is how the lyrics subvert expectations and embrace inclusivity. The line about the Nazis building the VW, only for God to drive it, offers a subtle redemption of an object. Even more striking is the image of God's car having "Jesus his jack and Buddha his spare," a practical, ecumenical touch that playfully unites different spiritual traditions under one hood. The unexpected detail of Elvis singing from the backseat further cements this quirky, accessible vision of the divine. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they make the divine approachable and even a bit mischievous. By grounding profound concepts in the mundane details of car culture and highway etiquette, the song invites listeners to consider a less rigid, more humanized spirituality. The final punchline, that God's humble "Thing" "runs a flat nine in the quarter," adds a surprising layer of hidden power, suggesting that true strength often lies beneath an unassuming exterior.