Bo Burnham’s “1985” is a nostalgic yet critical look at the past, specifically the year 1985. At first glance, it seems to celebrate the simplicity and perceived happiness of a typical white male during that era, epitomized by Burnham’s father. The song delves into themes of envy and admiration for a seemingly simpler time, juxtaposed with the reality of today’s complexities. Burnham uses this song to explore his relationship with his father and his own identity, while also acknowledging the broader societal context of the 1980s. It’s a personal tale reflecting on generational differences and the yearning for a less complicated time.
There’s more to this song than just nostalgia. It’s about identity, generational change, and the realization that every era has its challenges. Keep reading to discover the deeper layers of “1985”.
“1985” Lyrics Meaning
Starting off with “He’s a really cool guy,” the song initially paints a picture of an idealized man, seemingly perfect with his “cool shirt” and “cool shoes.” This superficial admiration sets the stage for a deeper narrative. As Burnham mentions the shirt repeatedly, it symbolizes the repetitive nature of idealizing the past.
The lyrics “He walks into a room / And everyone respects him” suggest a yearning for a time when respect and admiration seemed easier to come by. It’s a stark contrast to today’s complex social dynamics. The line “He reads the news / And doesn’t let that shit affect him” contrasts today’s constant bombardment of information and its impact on mental health.
But the chorus, “His name is any white guy in 1985,” reveals the song’s true essence. It’s not just about any man; it’s about a specific demographic in a specific era, symbolizing a simpler, more straightforward life, at least in Burnham’s perception.
As we delve deeper, the song becomes more personal. Burnham reflects on his father’s life, balancing work and family, and his own desire to emulate that simplicity. The lines “How can I be what I am, but 40 years ago, gee-whiz?” express a longing to experience life as his father did, free from the complexities of the modern world.
The song then takes a critical turn with, “It wasn’t easy being any white guy in 1985,” acknowledging the struggles of the time, such as the AIDS crisis. This realization adds depth to the earlier, more idealized view of the era.
Ultimately, Burnham concludes with a personal note, expressing a desire to be like his father, “My dad, 1985.” It’s a poignant acknowledgment of his father’s influence and a wish to connect with a simpler time in his father’s life.
The Story Behind “1985”
Bo Burnham’s “1985” is much more than a nostalgic look at the past. It’s a reflection of Burnham’s state of mind, grappling with his identity in the modern world. The song is deeply personal, centered around his father, Scott Burnham, and the idealized perception of his life in the mid-1980s. He uses this song as a vessel to explore his relationship with his father and the generational differences between them. The contrast between the seemingly simple life of his father and the complexities he faces today is a recurring theme in his work.
However, through “1985,” Burnham also acknowledges the challenges of the past, particularly the AIDS crisis, which adds a layer of realism to his nostalgia. This suggests that while he yearns for the simplicity of his father’s era, he also understands the complexities and struggles of that time.
In essence, “1985” is a song about coming to terms with one’s identity in the context of generational change. It’s a personal journey for Burnham, as he navigates the differences between his life and that of his father, ultimately finding a deeper understanding and appreciation for both.