Meaning of "We Don't Believe What's on TV" by Twenty One Pilots

In "We Don't Believe What's on TV," Twenty One Pilots discusses the skepticism towards the media and the entertainment industry. The lyrics suggest that people are aware that what is displayed on TV or in other forms of media can be exaggerated or manipulated, yet they still choose to believe what they want to see. This reflects a society that is easily influenced and tends to consume content catered to their desires rather than facing reality. It hints at the idea that we have become conditioned to accept a distorted version of the truth, blurring the lines between what is real and what is fabricated.

The song also delves into the theme of the fear of failure. The line "We have all learned to kill our dreams" expresses the belief that societal standards and pressures often suppress individual aspirations. The protagonist seeks reassurance from someone they care about, hoping that they will stick around even when faced with failure. The idea of "stick[ing] around" and making "money selling your hair" serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's desire for support and understanding, even if it means sacrificing personal boundaries or dreams.

The lyrics touch upon the influence of love and an individual's impact on the protagonist's perspective. The line "I used to say, 'I want to die before I'm old, but because of you I might think twice'" suggests that the presence of a significant person in the protagonist's life has altered their mindset and made them reconsider their previous notion of a premature death. This hints at the power of love and how it can transform one's outlook on life.

Overall, "We Don't Believe What's on TV" explores the themes of media skepticism, the fear of failure, and the transformative power of love. It calls attention to the notion of seeking truth amidst a society plagued by distortion and the impact of personal connections on one's perspective.