I Wish I Knew

Otis McDonald's 'I Wish I Knew' delves into the complexities of awareness and the longing for simpler times. The song opens with a sense of frustration and loneliness, as the artist reflects on the paradox of education and knowledge. The phrase 'ignorance is bliss' captures the essence of this sentiment, suggesting that sometimes, not knowing the harsh realities of life can be more comforting. The artist yearns to return to a time before he was burdened with the knowledge of the world's problems, highlighting the innocence of youth as a 'young man's game' and lamenting his current state of disillusionment.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'I wish I knew,' underscores a deep sense of regret and nostalgia. The artist misses the simplicity of not knowing 'that we're all screwed' when societal roles are played out and problems are ignored. This line speaks to the broader issue of societal complacency and the collective failure to address pressing issues. The dream-like repetition of 'Dream, dream, dream' serves as a temporary escape from these harsh realities, offering a fleeting sense of hope and possibility.

In the latter part of the song, the artist grapples with the difficulty of taking action and facing the truth. The line 'The truth is hard to shallow I think I'll chew it' poignantly captures the struggle of coming to terms with reality. Despite the reluctance, there is an acknowledgment that action is necessary, even if it is challenging. The song closes with a reiteration of the wish to return to a state of unawareness, emphasizing the emotional weight of knowledge and the desire for a simpler, more carefree existence.