Commotion

Creedence Clearwater Revival's song 'Commotion' captures the chaotic essence of urban life and the overwhelming nature of modern society. The lyrics, penned by frontman John Fogerty, reflect a sense of disorientation and frustration with the constant hustle and bustle that characterizes city living. The repeated phrase 'No, no, no, no, no' emphasizes a rejection or disbelief of the stressful environment that surrounds the narrator.

The song's chorus, with its repeated use of the word 'commotion' followed by 'Git, git, git, gone,' suggests a desire to escape the noise and confusion. The use of 'git' implies a sense of urgency to leave or move away from the chaos. The verses describe scenes of traffic jams, both on the freeway and metaphorically in places of worship, indicating that no space is free from the frenetic energy of the city. The mention of 'talk up in the White House' and 'talk up to your door' points to the incessant chatter and communication that fills the air but lacks substance, as 'people keep a-talking, they don't say a word.'

The final verse touches on the irony of the modern rat race, where individuals hurry and rush to save time, yet end up on treadmills—both literal and figurative—getting nowhere fast. The song critiques the paradox of trying to 'save' time, as the worry and effort invested in this pursuit seem to negate any time actually saved. Creedence Clearwater Revival, known for their roots rock sound, uses 'Commotion' to reflect on the societal pressures of the late 1960s and early 1970s, a message that remains relevant in today's fast-paced world.