State Of The Nation

New Order's song "State Of The Nation" delves into the complexities and challenges faced by society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of disillusionment and struggle, capturing the essence of a generation grappling with socio-political issues. The opening lines, "You can walk, or you can run / You don't have to be someone," suggest a sense of freedom and choice, yet this freedom is juxtaposed with a deeper sense of loss and confusion, as seen in the lines, "We're losing our blood in the sea." This metaphorical blood loss signifies the sacrifices and hardships endured by individuals within the nation.

The recurring chorus, "'Cause it's the state of the nation / That's holding our salvation," underscores the central theme of the song. It highlights the idea that the current state of societal affairs is both a barrier and a potential path to salvation. The repetition of this line emphasizes the weight of the nation's condition on the individual's sense of hope and well-being. The lyrics also touch on themes of deprivation and disillusionment, as seen in the lines, "Oh, the state of the nation / Is causing deprivation." This suggests that the socio-political climate is not only failing to provide for its people but is actively contributing to their suffering.

The song also explores personal narratives within this broader societal context. The protagonist's journey, from traveling far from home to feeling isolated behind a wall of stone, mirrors the collective experience of alienation and search for meaning. The line, "I know it all could be worthwhile / If only I could force a smile," encapsulates the struggle to find personal happiness amidst societal turmoil. The final lines, "Now we turn our backs to the sea / The shame of a nation we'll never be," offer a glimmer of resilience and hope, suggesting that despite the challenges, there is a determination to overcome and not be defined by the nation's failures.