Meaning of "Restless" by New Order

The lyrics of "Restless" by New Order delve into the universal theme of restlessness and the constant pursuit of fulfillment. The speaker grapples with the idea of what truly brings joy and contentment in life, questioning the tangible desires such as a nice car, a pretty girlfriend, or success. Despite longing for these things, there is an underlying feeling of emptiness and disillusionment with the world. The speaker seems to realize that material possessions and external validations can only offer temporary satisfaction and cannot fill the void of true happiness. This inner conflict highlights the struggles many individuals face in a society that often equates success and happiness with external markers of achievement. The repetition of "how much do you need?" emphasizes the idea of insatiability when it comes to desires and the constant quest for more, reflecting the endless cycle of longing and dissatisfaction. Overall, the lyrics capture a sense of longing, disillusionment, and the paradox of feeling restless in a world that offers endless possibilities but fails to provide true meaning and fulfillment.