The lyrics describe a sense of dissatisfaction with the current state of society, where individuals are trapped in monotonous routines and controlled by higher powers. The narrator questions the purpose of their existence and longs for a different reality where they can be free from the constraints imposed on them.

Meaning of "This Is Not Who We Were" by Mull Historical Society

"This Is Not Who We Were" delves into themes of conformity, societal expectations, and the desire for autonomy. The repeated references to bodies rolling off production lines and waiting for the bells to strike convey a sense of being trapped in a cycle of labor and control. The lyrics suggest a yearning for a different time where individuals could have been winners or at least second best, implying a feeling of lost potential and unfulfilled promises. The mention of being owned by higher powers and the imagery of turning off bloodlines and hiding from shadows underscore a sense of powerlessness and entrapment. The phrase "Don't dream my dreams for me" encapsulates the desire for personal agency and the rejection of imposed narratives. Overall, the song seems to reflect a longing for individuality, independence, and a break from societal norms.