Black Friday

Steely Dan's 'Black Friday' is a vivid and somewhat surreal exploration of personal escape and the chaos that ensues during a financial crisis. The term 'Black Friday' typically refers to a day of financial disaster, and in this song, it symbolizes a moment of reckoning and upheaval. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is preparing to flee from the turmoil, collecting what he is owed and leaving before anyone can stop him. This sense of urgency and the need to escape is palpable throughout the song.

The imagery in the song is striking and often darkly humorous. The protagonist plans to catch 'all the grey men as they dive from the fourteenth floor,' a grim reference to the desperation that can accompany financial ruin. Yet, there is also a sense of liberation in his plans. He intends to fly to Muswellbrook, a small town in Australia, where he will live freely, unburdened by societal expectations, symbolized by his decision to 'wear no socks and shoes' and 'feed all the Kangaroos.' This juxtaposition of dark and light elements creates a complex emotional landscape.

The song also touches on themes of self-reinvention and spiritual seeking. The protagonist talks about digging himself a hole and laying in it until he satisfies his soul, suggesting a desire for introspection and renewal. The mention of the Archbishop sanctifying him adds a layer of religious or spiritual quest, though it is tinged with cynicism as he is willing to 'let it roll' if the Archbishop doesn't come through. Ultimately, 'Black Friday' is a rich tapestry of imagery and themes, capturing the chaos of financial collapse and the human desire to escape and start anew.