Machinery

Sheena Easton's song "Machinery" delves into the emotional turmoil and existential struggle of feeling like a mere cog in a machine. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the loss of innocence and the harsh realities of life. The opening lines set a somber tone, with the protagonist waiting for the peace of the night to be shattered, symbolizing the inevitable disruption of tranquility by life's challenges. The mention of illusions in tatters suggests a disillusionment with previously held beliefs or dreams, further emphasizing the theme of lost innocence.

The chorus, with its powerful imagery of feeling like a piece of machinery, captures the essence of the protagonist's internal conflict. This metaphor highlights the dehumanizing effects of modern life, where individuals often feel reduced to mere components in a larger system. The protagonist's struggle to believe the truth and the need to get closer to see clearly reflect a deeper quest for authenticity and understanding in a world that often feels impersonal and mechanized.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's emotions intensify, with references to a "red hot fever" and a desire to give it hell, indicating a rebellious spirit and a yearning to break free from constraints. The repeated imagery of the pale moonlight and the power to hit it suggests a cyclical nature of these struggles, where moments of clarity and empowerment are fleeting but significant. Ultimately, "Machinery" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, capturing the tension between conformity and the desire for genuine self-expression.