Meaning of "Nothing Lost - Nothing Gained" by Midnight Oil

The lyrics of "Nothing Lost - Nothing Gained" by Midnight Oil present a bleak outlook on life, conveying a sense of resignation and acceptance of the status quo. The repetition of "And in my world" throughout the song creates a feeling of stagnation and sameness, highlighting the speaker's lack of motivation or willingness to change their circumstances. The imagery of drowning in happiness as opposed to facing sorrows suggests a desire to escape reality and avoid confronting difficult emotions. The mention of jumping aboard the train of freedom with a one-way fare that leads to disappearing tickets alludes to the transient nature of opportunities and the inevitability of missed chances. The advice to turn up the TV, drown out negativity, and ignore the baying dog at the door reflects a coping mechanism of avoidance and denial. The final lines about missing the chance to jump off the train at the platform's edge further reinforce a theme of passivity and missed opportunities. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of a person who has become disconnected and indifferent to the ups and downs of life, choosing to remain in a state of inaction and resignation.