Neil Young – “My My, Hey Hey” Essay

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Evidently, the Neil Young’s song (My My Hey Hey) is symbolic in nature. His choice of words and thematic use of colors are evident upon analysis. It is crucial to understand various provisions of this song in the context of its meaning and symbolic aspects. For example, Kurt Cobain quoted it in his suicidal note. Lyrically and symbolically, the line “Out of the blue and into the black” means a lot and can be used variedly to demonstrate diverse situations. It is symbolical that ‘blue’ is better than ‘black’ in the contexts of fate (Young & Crazy par. 1).

This provision depicts that one has moved from better to worse. Contextually, Neil Young could not believe that, at one moment, his rock songs would be irrelevant and obsolete. This is what is simply summarized by the concerned lyrical phrase. This symbolism does not apply only in the music industry; however, it is applicable in various contexts. It is vital to understand what an individual does in an industry so as to remain relevant.

The issue of remaining germane in the artistic industry is a critical provision. Literally, blue and black colors tend to contrast both in appearance and application. Their use in this song can be considered critical and meaningful in bringing out what Neil Young meant thematically. Another relevant example helpful in this context can be drawn when one uses heroine to avert pain. In this context, the side effects of heroine might be worse than the atrocities initially caused by the pain.

The song is inspirational. It urges people to put their best foot forward and endeavor to produce the best as time runs out. One might be irrelevant as time passes as depicted by the artist (Neil Young). The situation is worse when things have gone stuffy and nothing can be done about them. Precisely, this can be the symbolic meaning of this phrase and the color codes used.

Also, there is a considerable difference between the use of “burning out” and “fading away” in the song. Neil Young used the two phrases to support the previously mentioned color codes. Symbolically, “burning out” has been used to denote a total extinction from existence. Conversely, “fading away” is a slow-paced disappearance from existence. The latter is retrievable while the former is irreversible. By using the two phrases together, the artist provided an opportunity to evaluate various artistic situations.

This is backed up by another line in the song, “And once you’re gone, you can never come back”, which supports the previously mentioned total extinction. It is evident that songs are written to reflect on the daily happenings. Neil used this song to discern various aspects of artistry and other relevant provisions. It is crucial to understand the deeper meaning of the entire phrases within the song. This will help in revealing the symbolic meaning of the song.

Critically, the differences that exist between the use of “burning out” and “fading away”, can be discerned contextually and variably. As indicated before, the consequences of burning out incorporate the absolute extermination. Symbolically, things that have burnt out are no longer in existence (Lyricsfreak 2). Another credible issue in this context is the fact that various fashions and artistic styles have come and gone.

This denotes what Neil meant symbolically. Conversely, the consequences of fading away are evident. What has faded away might sound irrelevant when considered critically. Several things happen when one has passed his or her prime life. It is unfortunate that as time passes by, one becomes unable to do the things he/she could do during his or her prime time. Evidently, life changes considerably. This is what Neil wanted to demonstrate.

Additionally, the line, “They give you this, but you pay for that” is an interesting concept as evident from the song. Usually, people do not get what they desire. They fight to obtain a particular thing only to get the reverse. This is an interesting provision in the context of human life and how people relate.

This phrase also denotes the insincerity evident among people. Most individuals are not straight forward. What they give out is not what was asked for. Neil used this phrase to discern the aspects of dishonesty amongst masses. “They”, in this song, refers to individuals who one deals with regardless of the sector.

One can be deceived in numerous ways (Lyricsfreak 4). The deceit in this context means that what one realizes later might not be what he or she expected before. What is given out is not what was asked for. This can range from physical objects to vital information. Precisely, there is no honesty in the concerned deals. “Payment” refers to the ultimate loss incurred in the concerned deal.

Conclusively, Neil Young used symbolism in his song. The significance of colors and thematic styles of the song are evident. It is important to understand various provisions of this song as discussed earlier. Contextually, this is a critical provision in regard to symbolism and song writing.

Works Cited

Lyricsfreak. . 2012. Web.

Young, Neil and Crazy Horse. “My My Hey Hey.” Rust Never Sleeps. 1979. New York, NY: Reprise. Print.

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