Meaning of "Litmus" by Five Iron Frenzy

The song "Litmus" reflects on the dangers of commodifying faith and exploiting spirituality for personal gain. The lyrics suggest a disillusionment with the way religion is often packaged and marketed, reducing profound beliefs to mere entertainment. The song criticizes the way some individuals manipulate religious language and imagery to fit preconceived notions of success and popularity, highlighting the superficiality and lack of authenticity in such endeavors. The references to testing with litmus paper and divining rods metaphorically underscore the fruitlessness of attempting to quantify or control one's connection to a higher power. Additionally, the song addresses the conflict between artistry and spirituality, as well as the pressure to conform to specific standards in both the music industry and religious communities. Ultimately, "Litmus" serves as a poignant critique of hypocritical behavior, misplaced priorities, and the loss of genuine connection in the pursuit of fame and fortune.