Colin Hay：Meaning of It's A Mistake Songmeaning

"It's A Mistake" is a protest song that expresses the frustration and fears of the common people about the military and political power struggles. It starts with a call to hide in shelters to avoid the consequences of warfare. The lyrics then question the motives of the authorities who seem to be more interested in having a party than finding a peaceful solution. The chorus repeats the phrase "It's a mistake" several times, which is a direct criticism of the leadership's decisions. The song then proceeds to describe the aftermath of the war, where the boys who fought and killed now have nothing to say. The authorities have arrested some people and claim victory, but the underlying cause of the conflict remains unresolved. The lyrics point out that apologizing or blaming the victim is not the solution and that people must learn to take responsibility for their actions. In the second half, the song directly addresses the commanders and leaders, asking them to consider the consequences of their power games. The chorus repeats again, emphasizing the point that mistakes have been made, and things can be improved if people work together. The song ends on an optimistic note, implying that if people continue to protest and stand up for what they believe in, change can happen. Overall, "It's A Mistake" is a commentary on the futility of war and the lack of accountability that comes with unchecked power. It encourages individuals to speak up and take action, rather than stand idly by and watch the world around them crumble.