New Dark Ages

Bad Religion's song "New Dark Ages" is a powerful commentary on the current state of the world, drawing parallels between contemporary society and the historical Dark Ages. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a world plunged into chaos and ignorance, where truth and reason are overshadowed by fear and superstition. The opening lines, "Can you hear the call in our rambling land? Susurrations, that can expand beyond all hope of light," suggest a society on the brink of collapse, where whispers of doom are growing louder and more pervasive.

The song's chorus, "Welcome to the new Dark Ages, I hope you're living right," serves as a stark warning to listeners. It implies that we are living in a time where rational thought and scientific progress are being undermined by irrational beliefs and regressive ideologies. The reference to Ezekiel's call and the imagery of being "plucked clean out of sight" alludes to apocalyptic visions and the idea of divine judgment, further emphasizing the sense of impending doom.

Bad Religion, known for their punk rock sound and socially conscious lyrics, use this song to critique the current socio-political climate. The line, "We're animals with golden rules who can't be moved by rational views," highlights the hypocrisy and contradictions within human nature. Despite our capacity for reason and morality, we often fall prey to irrational fears and destructive behaviors. The song ultimately serves as a call to action, urging listeners to recognize the dangers of ignorance and strive for a more enlightened and rational world.