Meaning of "Automatic" by Less Than Jake

The lyrics in "Automatic" by Less Than Jake delve into the theme of self-awareness and the questioning of one's own knowledge and beliefs. The narrator expresses their uncertainty about the things they think they know, suggesting that there may be more to reality than meets the eye. They question whether the rules they follow are just leading them blindly, possibly implying that societal norms and expectations can restrict individual thought and autonomy.

The repetition of the phrase "I think I think I know it all" emphasizes the narrator's introspective nature, highlighting a sense of skepticism and self-doubt. They acknowledge that their beliefs may be mere strings that lead them along, possibly suggesting that they are easily influenced or manipulated. This raises the question of whether the narrator's perception of the world is skewed or distorted.

The line "Bad things are automatic when you see them every day" alludes to the desensitization that can occur when one is constantly exposed to negative or harmful experiences. The repetition of this line emphasizes the idea that these bad things become normalized or routine, questioning whether this is a form of acceptance or resignation. The reference to a "fucked up dream" adds a sense of confusion and unease, suggesting that the narrator is aware of the potential distortion or manipulation of their reality.

Overall, the lyrics in "Automatic" explore the theme of self-reflection and challenge the notion of blindly accepting one's knowledge and beliefs. They raise important questions about the influence of societal norms, the potential distortion of reality, and the internal struggle to find true understanding.