Mediate
INXS
Navigating the Complexities of Modern Life: INXS's 'Mediate'
INXS's song 'Mediate' is a rhythmic and poetic exploration of the complexities and contradictions of modern life. The lyrics are a series of rapid-fire, single-word commands and observations that touch on a wide range of social, emotional, and existential themes. The song's structure, with its repetitive and almost hypnotic use of rhyming words, creates a sense of urgency and reflection, urging listeners to consider the state of the world and their place within it.
The song opens with words like 'Hallucinate,' 'Dessegregate,' and 'Mediate,' setting a tone that oscillates between the surreal and the socially conscious. The repeated call to 'Mediate' serves as a central theme, suggesting the need for balance and understanding in a world filled with hate, division, and conflict. The lyrics encourage listeners to 'Try not to hate' and to 'Love your mate,' emphasizing the importance of compassion and human connection in overcoming societal challenges.
Throughout the song, INXS touches on various issues such as racial integration ('A white black state'), environmental concerns ('The earth's own weight'), and the impact of technology and modernity ('Atomic fate'). The mention of 'The number eight' and 'At ninety-eight we all rotate' could be interpreted as references to cycles and the passage of time, highlighting the ongoing nature of these struggles. The song's closing lines, with repeated calls to 'Liberate,' underscore a desire for freedom and change, urging listeners to take action and create a better world.
'INXS's 'Mediate' is a thought-provoking and multifaceted song that challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives and the broader societal issues that affect us all. Its blend of poetic language and urgent messaging makes it a powerful piece that resonates on multiple levels.