Song Meaning

This track frames a supposed rivalry between XTC and Adam Ant as a battle between artistic philosophies. It pits "content versus form," suggesting XTC represents substance and Adam Ant embodies style, both vying for dominance in the rock and roll landscape. The lyrics immediately establish that this conflict isn't about objective truth, stating plainly, "There is no right or wrong." The narrative presents a dynamic struggle where neither artist gains a permanent upper hand. Just as one seems to be ascendant, the other makes a comeback, illustrated by Adam Ant's "Ant music, like a phoenix," rising again. This cyclical nature of their perceived competition highlights the ephemeral nature of chart success and critical acclaim, suggesting a constant push and pull rather than a definitive victory. The most striking aspect is the narrator's confessed inability to resolve this debate. The inclusion of the "singer from Bow Wow Wow" being equally undecided underscores the subjective and perhaps manufactured nature of the rivalry. It’s not a clear-cut contest but a matter of taste, where even those involved can't definitively choose a side, reinforcing the earlier assertion that "History will decide." Ultimately, the lyrics effectively capture the feeling of an ongoing, unresolvable debate in music. The repeated phrase "There is no right or wrong" acts as a refrain that dismantles the premise of a true conflict, leaving the listener with the impression that the real takeaway is the appreciation of diverse artistic approaches. The song’s power lies in its meta-commentary on how we categorize and compare artists, suggesting that the most compelling narratives often emerge from ambiguity.