"Stir It Up" by Howard Jones is a song about breaking free from the mundane and seeking a more fulfilling life. It expresses the desire to be awakened from a monotonous and ordinary existence and to experience the full range of emotions, both joy and pain. The lyrics suggest a longing for a life that is not easy but is worth living. It urges the listener to break free from conformity and embrace their passions and desires. The line "Just don't tow the line" encourages individuals to challenge societal norms and expectations, instead of blindly following the crowd. The song also emphasizes the importance of taking action and making a difference. It encourages standing up against indifference and complacency, urging the listener to make their voice heard and celebrate their own existence. Overall, "Stir It Up" is a call to challenge the status quo, embrace one's individuality, and strive for a more meaningful and vibrant life. It encourages listeners to rock the boat, shake things up, and not settle for a life of mediocrity.