The meaning of The Happening by Pixies

The Pixies' song "The Happening" is a standout track from their 1990 album "Boss". The song's lyrics are often cryptic and open to interpretation, but at its core it appears to be about the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.

The song's protagonist describes a series of eerie events that seem to unfold without any logical explanation. "I woke up this morning, got my head in a spin, saw the lights go out, everything is happening". These events are not necessarily connected by cause and effect, but rather seem to occur simultaneously, creating a sense of chaos and disorder.

Throughout the song, Black Francis' distinctive vocals convey a sense of detachment and resignation, as if he's observing these events from outside his own life. "The sun is rising, the sun is setting, I'm just waiting for the happening". This detachment could be seen as a form of coping mechanism, allowing him to process the seemingly random events that are unfolding around him.

The lyrics also contain references to "the kids in the street, with their heads in the air", suggesting a sense of disconnection and disorientation among the younger generation. This could be seen as a commentary on the societal upheaval of the time, where traditional norms were being challenged and old certainties were being eroded.

Ultimately, "The Happening" is a song about the unpredictability and mystery of life, where events unfold without any clear rhyme or reason. "I don't know what's happening, I don't know what's true". The Pixies' unique blend of surf rock, punk energy, and poetic lyrics has made "The Happening" a fan favorite, and its enigmatic nature continues to inspire interpretation and debate among listeners to this day.