Meaning of "Touched By The Hand Of God" by New Order

The lyrics of "Touched By The Hand Of God" by New Order delve into the depths of a past relationship and the intense emotions that are still lingering. The speaker sets the scene by standing beside the ocean, a vast and powerful force of nature that represents the enormity of their emotions. The mention of not being able to look at the other person and the realization that the relationship is over suggests a sense of denial or avoidance. They confess to never fully understanding that the relationship was coming to an end until it was too late.

The speaker then describes their current state of loneliness, highlighting that all their emotions and feelings belong solely to them. This implies a loss of connection and an inability to share their innermost thoughts and experiences with anyone else. The phrase "And with every breath we take and the illusions we create will come to you someday" illustrates how the speaker perceives the lingering impact of their emotions on the other person. Despite being physically separated, they believe that their shared experiences will eventually reach the other person.

The following verses emphasize the profound effect the other person had on the speaker. They admit to never having looked at the person in a sexual or romantic way before, indicating a newfound attraction and desire. Additionally, the phrase "never woken up like this so desperately before" suggests that their feelings are all-consuming, possibly implying a sense of vulnerability and longing.

The repetition of the chorus, "I was touched by the hand of God. Never knew it, but of course I was," signifies a realization of the profound impact the relationship had on the speaker. "Touched" can be interpreted both literally, referring to physical touch, and metaphorically, representing a deeply transformative experience. The reference to God can be seen as a metaphor for something transcendent or divine. It implies that the relationship was a life-altering event, an encounter with a force beyond human comprehension.

Overall, "Touched By The Hand Of God" explores the aftermath of a relationship and how it can leave an indelible mark on an individual's emotional landscape. It delves into the complex mix of emotions that can accompany the end of a deep connection and the transformative power of love and desire.