Will I Make It Through The Eighties?

Song Meaning

Julie Brown's sardonic anthem, "Will I Make It Through The Eighties?" isn't just a catchy new-wave tune; it's a survivalist's lament disguised as a party girl's diary entry. The song's brilliance lies in its unflinching portrayal of early adulthood malaise, framed against the backdrop of a decade synonymous with excess and anxiety. The lyrics paint a picture of a character perpetually teetering on the edge of burnout, a sentiment that resonated deeply then and continues to echo today. The opening verses are a brutal snapshot of post-party disorientation, a potent cocktail of regret and self-awareness. The chorus, a repetitive plea of "Will I make it through the eighties?," acts as both a question and a defiant statement. It acknowledges the overwhelming pressures of the era – the relentless pursuit of success, the hedonistic temptations, the looming threat of nuclear annihilation – while simultaneously clinging to a thread of hope. The reference to Sylvia Plath is particularly telling. By name-checking the iconic poet, Brown elevates the song beyond mere pop fluff, hinting at a deeper, more profound struggle with identity and purpose. It is not just about a hangover; it's a cultural hangover. Ultimately, "Will I Make It Through The Eighties?" finds its true punchline in the bridge. The protagonist's fleeting moment of self-resolve is immediately undercut by the lure of a backstage pass, a perfect encapsulation of the era's push-and-pull between ambition and self-destruction. The song's meaning transcends its specific time period. It is a wry observation on the human condition, forever caught between the desire for self-improvement and the irresistible pull of immediate gratification.