Phobia

Nothing But Thieves' song 'Phobia' delves into the complexities and anxieties of modern life, particularly focusing on the overwhelming influence of the internet and social media. The lyrics express a deep-seated frustration with the superficiality and constant connectivity that the digital age imposes. The repeated line 'I fucking hate the internet' encapsulates a sense of disillusionment and exhaustion with the online world, where validation is often sought through likes and clicks, yet it leaves the individual feeling empty and unwell.

The song also touches on themes of isolation and the search for genuine human connection. The narrator's disdain for 'famous suckers in their block long cars' and 'junkies in their private hell' highlights a sense of alienation from both the elite and the marginalized. This alienation is further emphasized by the recurring motif of staying in a 'five-star hotel' but not feeling well, symbolizing the hollow nature of material success and the lack of true fulfillment it brings.

Moreover, 'Phobia' explores the struggle between rage and hope, as the narrator oscillates between these emotions while grappling with their fears and uncertainties. The desire to know others' phobias and make friends suggests a yearning for deeper connections and understanding amidst the chaos. The song's raw and candid lyrics, combined with its intense musical composition, create a powerful commentary on the mental and emotional toll of living in a hyperconnected, yet often disconnected, world.