Song meaning of C’est La Vie by Madness

The song "C'est La Vie" by Madness seems to convey a message about the unpredictability and hardships of life. The lyrics highlight the importance of making the most out of every moment and not wasting time. The phrase "life begins at five to eight" suggests that life is short and fleeting, and there is no time to procrastinate or be complacent.

The song also mentions the concept of destiny, implying that everyone has a purpose and must fulfill their responsibilities. The line "Your destiny's about to call" suggests that individuals should be ready to face challenges and seize opportunities that come their way.

The second verse introduces a sense of individualism and self-reliance, emphasizing that in the face of societal and political injustices, one must stand tall and be prepared to face the consequences. The mention of a "toothless old hag" signifies the ineffectiveness and corruption of the justice system.

The repeated chorus and refrain of "Je ne le fais pas, c'est la vie" (I am not doing it, that's life) and "C'est comme ça que, ça va être" (That's how it's going to be) further emphasize the acceptance of life's hardships and the inability to change them. It conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance.

The bridge suggests that some people may view the current state of the world as a form of Armageddon, a catastrophic event. This could be seen as a critique of societal or political issues and the feeling that we are on the brink of chaos.

Overall, the song paints a picture of a challenging and uncertain world, encouraging listeners to be resilient, seize opportunities, and accept the realities of life. It seems to convey a message of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.