Meaning of "A Lesson In The Abuse Of Information Technology" by The Menzingers

The lyrics in "A Lesson in the Abuse of Information Technology" by The Menzingers delve into the complexities of morality and the disillusionment that comes with the modern world. The speaker begins by acknowledging their own participation in the moral ambiguity of society, suggesting that they supply their own "divide morality" and dye everything shades of grey. This implies that they no longer see things in black and white, but rather accept the blurred lines that exist within their own actions and beliefs. They also mention that nothing stays gold, indicating a loss of innocence and a recognition that idealism often gives way to disillusionment.

The lyrics go on to describe the speaker's experiences of loneliness and the self-gratifying nature of their own choices. They mention "another self gratifying glimpse of a lonely road," suggesting that their actions are driven by a need for self-fulfillment and validation despite the isolation they feel. The line "self deception learn the lesson hedon" indicates that the speaker is aware of their own tendency to deceive themselves, to indulge in hedonistic behaviors that offer temporary relief from their inner struggles.

Amidst this self-examination, the lyrics also touch on the limitations of human knowledge and the mysteries that surround us. The speaker mentions seeing portraits of things they'll never know, highlighting the vast amount of unknowns in the world and the limitations of our understanding. These portraits could be physical representations or metaphorical depictions of the elusive nature of certain truths or experiences.

The desire for connection and meaning is also evident in the lyrics. The line "our bodies across the ocean" suggests a longing to bridge the physical distance between individuals, seeking solace and understanding in others. The plea to "lay your hands down be a crutch" reflects a yearning for support and emotional stability within relationships. The repetition of "Where'd you go? Well I don't know" expresses a sense of uncertainty and confusion in trying to navigate interpersonal connections and the loneliness that can result when someone disappears from their life.

Overall, these lyrics convey a sense of disillusionment with the world and oneself, while also hinting at a desire for connection and understanding. The speaker grapples with the complex issues of morality, deception, loneliness, and the limited nature of human knowledge. They acknowledge the challenges they face but also hold on to a resilience and determination to confront and overcome them.