Meaning of "What It Is" by Bad Religion

"What It Is" by Bad Religion delves into the complexities of existence and the existential questions that many individuals face. The lyrics touch upon the dichotomies present in life, such as purpose versus aimlessness, unity versus exclusion, and beginnings versus endings. The speaker grapples with the struggle to make sense of the world around them and find meaning in their experiences. Despite recognizing the existence of virtues, morality, and reasons behind actions, the speaker still finds themselves lost and unable to grasp the true essence of these concepts. The repeated lines "I don't know what it is" convey a sense of bewilderment and frustration at the elusiveness of clarity and understanding. The mention of seeds of inspiration that do not germinate and a beacon of awakening that remains out of reach further emphasize the speaker's search for enlightenment and insight. Ultimately, the lyrics reflect a universal human desire to find purpose and meaning in a world that often seems uncertain and unknowable.