Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a picture of a group that's defiant and resilient, even in the face of repeated setbacks. There's a sense of embracing a difficult path, acknowledging they'll "fall down and fail the test" but refusing to "complain." This attitude is encapsulated in the repeated assertion that "we get around," suggesting a persistent movement and an inability for external forces to truly halt their progress or spirit. They seem to operate on their own terms, taking risks and accepting the consequences without apology.
The core tension lies in the group's self-perception versus how they might be perceived by others. They acknowledge potential judgment, like people turning "noses up," and dismiss it by stating they aren't "social" in a conventional sense. This isn't about being aloof; it's about prioritizing their own trajectory, which they frame as productive rather than wasted time. The line "It's like we said we get around" reinforces this idea of a distinct, self-determined path.
The most striking element is the almost nihilistic acceptance of failure, coupled with a defiant swagger. Phrases like "We've already lost / No-one else to blame" and being "Beaten up by the best disease" suggest a history of struggle, yet this doesn't lead to despair. Instead, it fuels a dismissive attitude towards external validation, particularly towards figures they mock as "saviour of rock'n'roll" who are "just drunk on fame." This contrast highlights their commitment to an authentic, albeit rough, experience over superficial success.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics stems from their raw, unvarnished portrayal of perseverance. The repeated, anthemic chorus of "We get around / You can't drag us down" acts as a powerful declaration of independence. It’s the sound of a group that has weathered storms, learned to roll with the punches, and found strength not in avoiding hardship, but in navigating it with an unshakeable, almost defiant, sense of self.
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