Turnover

Fugazi's song 'Turnover' delves into the internal conflict between complacency and the urge to rebel. The lyrics paint a picture of someone waking up, reaching to turn off the alarm, symbolizing the start of a new day and the repetitive nature of daily life. The phrase 'there's never so much seething that it can't be disarmed' suggests that even intense feelings of anger or frustration can be subdued or ignored. This is further emphasized by the lines 'You just stop it up, pass it on, shove it to shelf it,' indicating a tendency to suppress emotions and avoid confrontation.

The song continues with imagery of 'lounging against your weapons,' which can be interpreted as a metaphor for being in a state of readiness but choosing not to act. The 'residue of tremor' passing suggests a lingering sense of unease or anxiety that is temporarily alleviated by inaction. The mention of 'cherie amour' hints at a romantic or affectionate influence that suggests it might be time to 'smash things up,' or break free from the cycle of complacency. However, the repetition of 'stop it up, pass it on, shove it to shelf it' reinforces the idea of continuing to avoid taking decisive action.

The final line, 'I'm only sleeping,' encapsulates the overall theme of the song. It suggests a state of dormancy or passivity, where the individual is aware of their dissatisfaction but chooses to remain inactive. This line can also be seen as a nod to The Beatles' song 'I'm Only Sleeping,' which similarly explores themes of lethargy and the desire to escape from the pressures of life. Fugazi's 'Turnover' ultimately reflects the tension between the comfort of inaction and the desire for change, a struggle that many people can relate to in their own lives.