Meaning of "Listen" by Toad The Wet Sprocket

The lyrics of "Listen" delve into the complexities of human existence and the various contradictions and struggles that individuals face. The singer ponders whether we truly learn from our mistakes or if we continue to make the same wrong decisions. The lines discussing being called sacred, obscene, faithless, or anything else highlight the ambiguity and subjectivity of labels and judgments placed on individuals. The internal struggle between lying and the desire to justify actions suggests a battle between morals and personal gain. The mention of silence and scream represents the dichotomy between bottling up emotions and the need to express oneself. The feeling of being caught in headlines symbolizes the overwhelming chaos and scrutiny of the world. Through it all, the repetition of "call and you listen" emphasizes the yearning for connection and understanding in a seemingly chaotic and noisy world.