Meaning: This quote by musician Nick Lowe speaks to the allure and glamour associated with being a military flier or a member of a band. It reflects the cultural significance and romanticized perception of these two professions, particularly during the time when Lowe was coming of age in the 1960s and 1970s.

The quote suggests that, in the eyes of the speaker, being a military flier or a band member represented the epitome of coolness and adventure. These two paths symbolized a sense of freedom, excitement, and rebellion, which were highly valued traits in the countercultural movements of the era.

Firstly, the idea of being a military flier conjures images of bravery, skill, and daring. The image of a pilot soaring through the skies in a powerful aircraft carries a sense of heroism and adventure. This romanticized perception of military aviation has been perpetuated through popular culture, with movies, books, and television shows often depicting pilots as fearless and dashing figures. The notion of flying high above the earth, navigating through the clouds, and engaging in aerial combat has long captivated the public imagination, and it's not difficult to understand why it held such appeal for many young people.

On the other hand, the concept of being in a band represented a different kind of allure. Musicians, especially those in rock bands, were seen as the embodiment of rebellion, creativity, and nonconformity. The rock and roll lifestyle, with its associations of wild performances, adoring fans, and a sense of artistic freedom, held a powerful allure for those seeking to break away from the norms of society. Being in a band represented a form of expression and a way to connect with others through the universal language of music. The idea of traveling the world, playing to adoring crowds, and living a life of creativity and passion held a strong appeal for many young people with a desire to escape the mundane.

In the context of the quote, Nick Lowe's admiration for these two paths reflects the broader cultural fascination with adventure, risk-taking, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. During the 1960s and 1970s, societal norms were being challenged, and traditional career paths were increasingly viewed as limiting and unfulfilling. The allure of becoming a military flier or a band member represented an alternative to the conventional expectations of society, offering a sense of purpose, excitement, and the opportunity to live life on one's own terms.

In summary, Nick Lowe's quote captures the romanticized appeal of being a military flier or a band member during a time of societal upheaval and cultural transformation. It reflects the desire for adventure, freedom, and the rejection of traditional expectations, as well as the admiration for those who dared to pursue unconventional paths. Whether soaring through the skies as a pilot or rocking out on stage as a musician, these roles symbolized a sense of rebellion and excitement that continues to captivate the imagination and inspire individuals to pursue their own dreams of adventure and self-expression.