Obsolete Absolute
Lagwagon
The Inevitable March of Obsolescence
Lagwagon's song "Obsolete Absolute" delves into the unsettling reality of becoming outdated in a rapidly evolving world. The lyrics poignantly highlight how various elements that once defined human existence—such as typewriters, cursive handwriting, and even empathy—are now considered obsolete. This obsolescence extends beyond mere objects to encompass fundamental human interactions and emotions, painting a bleak picture of a society losing touch with its roots and humanity.
The song's chorus, with its repetitive declaration of "Obsolete, absolutely," underscores the inevitability of this transformation. The imagery of "swinging slowly in the hang" and "starving bees on dying vines" evokes a sense of decay and helplessness. The mention of "new machines" coming primed suggests a future dominated by technology, where traditional values and practices are rendered irrelevant. This shift is not just a loss of tools but a loss of identity, as the things that once defined us are stripped away.
Lagwagon also touches on the emotional and social consequences of this obsolescence. The lyrics lament the erosion of compassion, eye contact, and family bonds, emphasizing that we are becoming "prey" to the relentless march of progress. The plea for salvation—"Mamma, poppa, save me"—is a desperate cry for a return to simpler, more meaningful times. Ultimately, "Obsolete Absolute" serves as a powerful commentary on the cost of technological advancement and the erosion of human connection, urging listeners to reflect on what we stand to lose in our pursuit of progress.