The lyrics of "What's Going On" by Hüsker Dü highlight a sense of distraction and self-absorption, as the singer admits to talking instead of listening and being more concerned with their own thoughts than with what others are saying.

Meaning of "What's Going On" by Hüsker Dü

The repetition of the phrase "What's going on inside my head" throughout the song suggests a theme of introspection and self-awareness. The lyrics convey a sense of disconnect with others, signaling that the speaker is absorbed in their own thoughts to the point of disregarding the people around them. This self-absorption may be a result of inner turmoil or confusion that the singer is grappling with, causing them to be preoccupied with their own internal struggles rather than engaging with those in their external environment. The song could be exploring themes of mental health, communication breakdown, and the importance of being present and attentive in our interactions with others.