The News

Paramore's song 'The News' delves into the overwhelming nature of the modern media landscape and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. The lyrics express a sense of helplessness and frustration that many feel in the face of constant, often distressing news coverage. The song captures the internal conflict of wanting to stay informed about global events while also feeling the need to protect one's mental health by disengaging from the relentless news cycle.

The repeated lines 'Turn on, turn off the news' reflect the push-and-pull dynamic of engaging with media. It suggests a coping mechanism, where the act of turning off the news is a temporary relief from the 'war' behind the eyes, a metaphor for the internal struggle and anxiety caused by the bombardment of information. The song also touches on the guilt and helplessness felt by those who are far from the frontlines of global crises, acknowledging the privilege of safety yet feeling 'useless behind this computer.'

Paramore's critique extends to the nature of the news itself, describing it as 'Exploitative, performative, informative' and questioning the normalization of such a media environment. The song challenges listeners to consider the impact of consuming news that is often sensationalized and may not provide the full context of the issues at hand. 'The News' is a call to awareness about the media we consume and the effects it has on our collective psyche, urging a balance between staying informed and maintaining mental well-being.