Meaning of "When?" by Bad Religion

The lyrics of "When?" by Bad Religion convey a sense of disillusionment and despair about the state of the world and society. The singer reflects on the past five years of their life and highlights their struggle to hold back tears when confronted with the pathos they see everywhere. The repetition of "when?" in the song emphasizes the singer's frustration with the lack of change and progress in addressing these issues.

The line "That everything around you has a hidden tragedy?" suggests that there is a deeper layer of suffering beneath the surface of everyday life. The seeds of happiness have not been able to grow, indicating a sense of stagnation or suppression of joy. The singer also criticizes the younger generation for being oblivious to the brevity of human life and the slow march of death. They express disappointment in the lack of awareness or urgency to make a difference.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of selfishness. The line "And if you think you've got it made, just revel in your selfish ways" serves as a critique of those who are satisfied with their own lives and turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. The final line, "When the world stops turning so will you," suggests that everyone is ultimately interconnected and that the consequences of our collective actions will impact us all.

Overall, "When?" is a reflection on the despair and darkness that the world holds. It serves as a call to action and a plea for change, urging listeners to confront the hidden tragedies around them and to recognize the fleeting nature of human life.