Meaning of "Driven to Tears" by Sting

The lyrics of "Driven to Tears" by Sting seem to convey a deep sense of despair and powerlessness in the face of global issues and atrocities. The singer grapples with the question of responsibility and individual reactions to suffering and injustice, wondering how one can turn a blind eye to the world's problems. The reference to hiding shame and the superficiality of a comfortable existence being reduced to meaningless partying highlights the disconnect between those who are safe and comfortable and those who are suffering. The mention of innocent lives being reduced to just a page in a magazine emphasizes the desensitization and lack of empathy in society, where cameras capture tragedy but fail to provide real solutions. The repeated refrain of being "driven to tears" expresses the overwhelming emotional response to the state of the world, where protest seems futile and no clear solutions are in sight. Ultimately, the song poses a haunting question about the future of humanity and the need for a collective response to the world's challenges.