Meaning of "When Yer Twenty Two" by The Flaming Lips

The lyrics in "When Yer Twenty Two" by The Flaming Lips seem to depict a feeling of being trapped in a system or a routine that strips away one's individuality and sense of agency. The references to perpetual motion and being "stuck in the machine" suggest a sense of powerlessness and a lack of control over one's own life. The idea of feeling like a "nothing" instead of a "these" further emphasizes the loss of identity and the struggle to find significance in a world that seems to devalue individuality. The repeated reference to the age of twenty-two is interesting, as it is commonly seen as a time of transition and emerging adulthood. The lyrics may be exploring the contrast between the expectations and pressures of adulthood with the innocence and simplicity of youth. The imagery of broken eggs and cracked bones could symbolize the fragility of human existence and the potential for destruction or damage in the face of external forces. Overall, the lyrics seem to convey a sense of existential angst and a longing for a sense of authenticity and purpose in a world that can feel cold and indifferent.