Meaning of "Who Needs It" by Hazel O'Connor

The lyrics of "Who Needs It" by Hazel O'Connor delve into the fear and anxiety surrounding the nuclear era and the ever-looming threat of war and destruction. The imagery of the mushroom tower and nuclear rain paints a stark picture of the consequences of a nuclear fallout, emphasizing the devastating impact it could have on humanity. The reference to a creature at the top of the tower seeking power and the idea of pressing the button highlights the dangers of individuals in positions of authority possessing the ability to initiate catastrophic events. The repeated refrain of "Here comes the era, the era of the living dead" speaks to the numbing effect that the constant fear of nuclear war can have on society, portraying a bleak outlook on the future. The lyrics serve as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to question who truly benefits from the perpetuation of such destructive forces and to consider the consequences of living in a world overshadowed by the threat of nuclear devastation.