The song "Modern Man" by Howard Jones reflects on the struggles and desires of a contemporary individual who longs for a fulfilling and ideal life that seems out of reach. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and disillusionment with the world. The narrator pleads for something tangible to hold onto, something that won't fade away. They desire dreams that won't be shattered and a life where all the bills are paid. However, despite these aspirations, the reality never aligns with their expectations. They feel deceived by the lies they were told throughout the day. The song also touches upon the idea of wanting a steadfast belief system and something that is always right. The narrator craves a love that is consistent, offering justice without any fights. Yet again, these desires remain unfulfilled. The lyrics express the yearning for a life devoid of conflict, where everything is provided without any sacrifice. The narrator wants to have it all without having to endure any pain. Unfortunately, this utopian existence eludes them. The song suggests that the modern man is constantly bombarded with unattainable visions of what life should be like. They are led to believe that everything is black and white, but the reality is often grey and complex. The discrepancy between the desired life and the reality creates frustration and a feeling of being lost. In summary, "Modern Man" critiques the unfulfilled expectations and illusions often perpetuated in a contemporary society. It speaks to the desire for a life of ease and fulfillment that seems to always remain out of grasp.
