David Watts

The Kinks' song "David Watts" delves into the theme of envy and the longing for a more glamorous and successful life. The protagonist of the song is a self-described "dull and simple lad" who feels overshadowed by the seemingly perfect David Watts. David is portrayed as the epitome of success and popularity, excelling in academics, sports, and social life. The repeated refrain of "Wish I could be like David Watts" underscores the protagonist's deep-seated desire to emulate David's achievements and lifestyle.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of David Watts as the golden boy, admired by everyone around him. He is the head boy at school, the captain of the team, and someone who effortlessly attracts the attention of girls. This idealization of David Watts highlights the protagonist's feelings of inadequacy and his yearning for recognition and acceptance. The line "I wish all his money belonged to me" further emphasizes the material and social aspirations that the protagonist associates with David's success.

The song also touches on the theme of unattainable ideals. Despite the protagonist's dreams and wishes, he remains acutely aware of the gap between his reality and the idealized image of David Watts. This sense of unattainability is reinforced by the repetitive and almost hypnotic "fa-fa-fa" chorus, which serves as a reminder of the protagonist's constant and unfulfilled longing. The Kinks use this song to explore the universal human experience of envy and the often unrealistic standards we set for ourselves based on the perceived success of others.