Meaning of "Panopticism" by Orchid

The lyrics of "Panopticism" delve into themes of distrust, deception, and the struggle to maintain a façade of contentment. The first line, "Is the first wander, the gauze gaze," sets the tone for the song, hinting at a sense of uncertainty and doubt. The repeated questioning of being the only one and the need for proof reflects a deep-seated paranoia and fear of being deceived. The line "We should laugh so it's not obvious" speaks to the pressure to pretend everything is okay even when it's not, highlighting the struggles of putting on a happy face in the midst of inner turmoil. The imagery of someone holding the narrator's hand too tightly for too long conveys a sense of suffocation and control, adding to the overall feeling of mistrust and unease. Overall, "Panopticism" portrays a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships, the fear of betrayal, and the facade of happiness that many people feel compelled to maintain.