Moral Panic

Nothing But Thieves' song 'Moral Panic' delves into the anxieties and existential dread of contemporary society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of collapse, where the 'last day' of life is imminent for everyone. The ocean, often a symbol of vastness and tranquility, is described as blue, but this beauty is overshadowed by the urgency of running out of time. The children, representing the future generation, are described as anxious and tense, reflecting the pervasive sense of unease that grips society.

The recurring phrase 'Moral panic is setting in' underscores the central theme of the song. Moral panic refers to the widespread fear that some evil threatens the well-being of society. This fear is often irrational and amplified by media and political rhetoric. The song suggests that this panic has reached a fever pitch, and it's too late to address the underlying issues. The term 'post-truth' highlights the era of misinformation and the erosion of objective facts, further fueling the sense of impending doom.

The imagery of the earth burning slowly and a million faces watching passively suggests a collective apathy and helplessness. The repetition of 'we let it go' emphasizes a resignation to the unfolding catastrophe. The song critiques the Information Age, calling it a 'modern joke,' implying that despite the abundance of information, society is more disconnected and misinformed than ever. 'Moral Panic' serves as a powerful commentary on the current state of the world, urging listeners to reflect on the consequences of inaction and the pervasive influence of fear and misinformation.