Touched By The Hand Of God

New Order's 'Touched By The Hand Of God' is a poignant exploration of emotional revelation and divine intervention. The song opens with the narrator standing by the ocean, a setting often associated with introspection and vast, uncontrollable emotions. The sight of a significant other's face triggers a flood of feelings, suggesting a moment of profound realization. The narrator admits to not being able to look at this person, indicating a sense of guilt or regret, and acknowledges that their relationship has ended, a fact they had not fully grasped until that moment.

The lyrics delve deeper into the narrator's internal struggle, expressing a sense of ownership over their feelings and experiences. The line 'You can't take that away' underscores a determination to hold onto their emotional truth, despite the breakup. The mention of 'illusions we create' hints at the complexities and perhaps the deceptions within the relationship, suggesting that these will eventually come to light. The recurring phrase 'touched by the hand of God' serves as a powerful metaphor for an unexpected, almost divine, moment of clarity and transformation. This divine touch signifies a profound change in the narrator's perspective, making them see their past relationship and their own desires in a new light.

The song also touches on themes of unfulfilled desires and the realization of deeper, perhaps previously unacknowledged, feelings. The narrator confesses to never having viewed the other person in a sexual way before, indicating a shift in their emotional and physical awareness. This newfound desperation and longing are part of the transformative experience brought on by the 'hand of God.' New Order's characteristic blend of melancholic lyrics and upbeat instrumentation creates a compelling contrast, enhancing the song's emotional depth and resonance. The repeated affirmation of being 'touched' emphasizes the lasting impact of this divine and emotional revelation on the narrator's life.