Meaning of "In a World Possessed by the Human Mind" by The Tragically Hip

"In a World Possessed by the Human Mind" delves into the idea of the media's power to shape our perceptions and influence our understanding of the world. The song suggests that the news we receive may not be truthful, posing the question of whether everything we see and hear can be trusted. The line "Just give me the news, it can all be lies" illustrates the cynicism behind the protagonist's view of media.

The lyrics also explore the concept of fear and how it paralyzes society. The line "We're in awe of NO ONE, We've none of their FEAR" suggests a rebellion against the culture of fear promoted by the media. The protagonist refuses to be consumed by fear and chooses to stay in their own safe space, detached from the chaos of the outside world.

The song further engages with the theme of justice and the notion that the law can be flawed. The line "In the shadow of the law and with colours of justice" suggests that justice is often compromised or manipulated, reinforcing the idea that the world is controlled by human perception rather than objective truth.

Despite the bleak portrayal of the world, the song offers a glimpse of hope through the presence of a significant other. The protagonist finds comfort and reassurance in this person, represented by the lines "You said, 'You shoulda seen the look on yer face'" and "Then I hope I said, 'it's fine'". This connection serves as a reminder that the chaos and fears of the world are ultimately insignificant.

In summary, "In a World Possessed by the Human Mind" delves into the notion that media and human perception control our understanding of reality. It challenges the trustworthiness of news while highlighting the culture of fear perpetuated by the media. The song finds solace in personal connections, emphasizing their role in mitigating the overwhelming influence of the external world.