Ready Steady Go!
The Pillows Lyrics

The lyrics of "Ready Steady Go!" by The Pillows touch upon themes of desire, pain, persistence, uncertainty about the future, and the bittersweet nature of life. The singer reflects on feeling desire and pain multiple times in their life, yet they continue to sing persistently about these emotions. They express a sense of apology for repeatedly discussing the same topic, possibly indicating a feeling of guilt or self-awareness for dwelling on the same feelings. Despite this, the singer expresses a desire for the listener to join them in singing tonight, suggesting a sense of connection or shared experience through music.

The lyrics also touch upon the fleeting nature of life and the uncertainty of what tomorrow may bring. Despite not knowing what the future holds, the singer has already taken the first step towards something new. The repeated exhortation to "Go go! Ready steady go!" conveys a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging the listener to move forward, regardless of their doubts or fears. The questions posed about walking together, feeling tired, and the possibility of being truly understood suggest a longing for companionship and understanding in the face of life's challenges.

The mention of rock music and meeting someone significant in the singer's life adds a layer of nostalgia and reminiscence to the lyrics. The idea of finding rock and knowing it could represent a moment of clarity or self-discovery, while meeting the other person symbolizes a connection that brings joy and meaning to the singer's life. The repetition of "Go go! Ready steady go!" reinforces the idea of moving forward with determination and enthusiasm, despite the inevitability of birth and death that everyone experiences.

The closing lines of the song introduce the term "Busters!" as a way of acknowledging the listener, perhaps implying a sense of camaraderie or shared identity. The lyrics also touch upon the duality of dreams and despair, hinting at the cyclical nature of life where both joy and sorrow are repeated experiences. The singer reflects on the struggle of enduring both reality and dreams, highlighting the resilience and determination to keep going, even in the face of hardship. The reference to being an animal and the refusal to consider suicide suggests a primal instinct for survival and a recognition of the preciousness of life itself. Ultimately, the singer finds solace in the simple but profound fact of being alive, emphasizing the beauty and wonder of existence.