Meaning of "One of the Millions" by XTC

"One of the Millions" captures the internal conflict many individuals face between their dreams and aspirations and the fear of the unknown and potential failure. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is caught up in a cycle of desire for change and liberation but is unable to break free from the comfort and security of their current situation. The constant hinting at taking action and making a change, yet always backing down at the last moment, highlights the struggle between the desire for personal growth and the reluctance to step out of the familiar. The repetition of "always saying what he's gonna do" emphasizes the idea of unfulfilled promises to oneself and the detrimental effects of remaining stagnant due to fear of the unknown. This song serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of playing it safe and staying within one's comfort zone, ultimately leading to a life of missed opportunities and regret.