Meaning of State Of The Nation by New Order

New Order's iconic track "State Of The Nation" stands as a testament to the band's ability to blend catchy synth-pop melodies with thought-provoking lyrical content. Released in 1986 as part of their album "Brotherhood," this song delves into the complexities of society by exploring various themes through evocative and sometimes cryptic lyrics.At its core, "State Of The Nation" addresses the state of the world and its impact on individuals. It examines the interconnection between personal experiences and the broader social context. The song beautifully encapsulates feelings of despair, frustration, and yearning for change. Each lyric unveils a new layer within the overarching theme and allows listeners to reflect on the harsh realities of life.One standout lyric is found in the first verse: "You can walk, or you can run, you don't have to be someone." This line invites us to contemplate the pressures and expectations placed on individuals in our society. It suggests that we have the freedom to choose our own path, regardless of societal expectations. The deeper theme here revolves around the importance of staying true to oneself and rejecting the notion that success must be measured by external validation.In the chorus, the phrase "Cause it's the state of the nation that's holding our salvation" resonates deeply. It points towards the idea that society as a whole is responsible for the current state of affairs. The concept of salvation, typically associated with religious contexts, introduces an unexpected theme in relation to society. It implies that collective action, rather than individual efforts, is necessary to bring about significant change and address societal issues.Another thought-provoking and emotionally charged lyric can be found in the second verse: "Even now, I'm all alone, behind a wall that's made of stone." This imagery evokes feelings of isolation and alienation, emphasizing the divide that exists between individuals within society. The stone wall symbolizes the barriers we create, both physical and emotional, that separate us from one another. This lyric prompts us to question the impact of these barriers and the importance of breaking them down to foster unity and understanding.One unexpected yet imaginative interpretation emerges from the line "If only I could force a smile." Here, the theme of emotional facades is introduced. It explores the idea of individuals concealing their suffering behind forced smiles, highlighting the performative nature of our social interactions. This theme emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding, urging us to look beyond surface-level interactions and recognize the struggles faced by others.Lastly, the poignant line "Now we turn our backs to the sea, the shame of a nation we'll never be" brings the discussion to a powerful conclusion. This lyric alludes to the feeling of collective guilt or shame that may arise from our failures as a society. By turning our backs to the sea, symbolizing the vastness of our problems, we attempt to distance ourselves from the responsibility to address our societal shortcomings. It encourages us to confront our collective shame head-on and work towards effecting positive change.In conclusion, New Order's "State Of The Nation" eloquently explores a range of themes that reflect the complexities of society. Each lyric invites listeners to reflect on the state of the world and their own place within it. By dissecting the song's standout lines, we uncover unexpected themes such as rejecting societal expectations, the need for collective action, overcoming emotional barriers, and confronting collective shame. Through its thought-provoking lyrics and mesmerizing synth-pop sound, this timeless track continues to resonate with audiences, encouraging them to engage in discussions about the state of our world and their role in shaping it.