The meaning and story of John Cale's song "Dirty-Ass Rock 'n' Roll" is open to interpretation and can vary depending on the listener. However, here is a possible interpretation: The song starts by describing a person who is feeling tired and worn out from a wild night of drinking (their eyes are bleeding from the "vicious bottle"). They don't want any niceties or small talk, as it would only annoy them. The mention of "undercover Sigmund Freud" suggests that they may feel like they have some hidden psychological issues or complexities. The chorus repeats the phrase "hey there" and "go on" as if encouraging the person to keep going despite feeling this way. The song then mentions secretaries and typewriters chattering away, which could represent the noise and distractions of daily life. The mention of a woman crying when she doesn't get what she wants could refer to entitlement or dissatisfaction. However, the narrator's "woman" is described as strong and resilient, always moving on and turning the narrator on. The repeated lines of "dirty ass rock 'n' roll" could symbolize rebellion, authenticity, and a raw, gritty energy associated with rock music. It can be seen as a celebration of this raw and powerful form of music. Overall, the song's lyrics evoke feelings of fatigue, frustration, and resilience in the face of daily struggles. It highlights the need for personal authenticity and the power of music to provide an escape or solace in difficult times.
