Meaning of "Trouble Every Day" by The Mothers Of Invention

"Trouble Every Day" is a critique of the media's portrayal of societal issues and the lack of actual change. The songwriter expresses their frustration with the constant bombardment of negative news and the empty promises of improvement by those in power. The riots and violence depicted in the lyrics reflect the songwriter's observations of social unrest and inequality, particularly through the lens of racial discrimination. The line, "I'm not black but there's a whole lots a times, I wish I could say I'm not white," showcases the desire to distance oneself from the racial divide in society. The lyrics also address the media's role in perpetuating fear and spreading misinformation, as well as the hypocrisy of news outlets claiming to be the first to report breaking news. The final lines of the song suggest that the problems society faces are deeply rooted and cannot be solved unless fundamental changes are made. The mention of a janitor and rats crossing the floor represents the struggle and hopelessness faced by those in poverty. Overall, "Trouble Every Day" serves as a powerful commentary on the flaws in society and the urgent need for real change.