Meaning of "Outside World" by XTC

` The song "Outside World" by XTC delves into the theme of willful ignorance and escapism. The woman in the lyrics creates a sanctuary for herself, including swans singing in her sauna and lions laughing at her lakeside, to shield herself from the harsh realities of the outside world. The references to bad men selling guns and spreading hate are juxtaposed with the woman's deliberate choice to ignore these issues. By choosing to surround herself with animals instead of engaging with the world's problems, she exhibits a sense of detachment and indifference. The repeated refrain of "she can't hear what's going on" reinforces her deliberate ignorance. The song can be interpreted as a commentary on those who choose to turn a blind eye to the world's issues, preferring a self-imposed blissful ignorance instead.

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