"Quelle Surprise" by Enter Shikari is a song that criticizes the state of society in 2011, highlighting the technological advancements and knowledge that humans possess, but also the negative aspects of greed, stagnation, and manipulation. The lyrics suggest that despite having the technology and knowledge to progress and make positive changes, humans are easily influenced and controlled. The line "We're so fucking adaptable, controvertible, ducking and weaving from the truth" suggests that people are willing to adapt and manipulate the truth if it benefits their own interests and financial gain. The song criticizes the banking industry and the pursuit of profit, as indicated by the lyrics "If it adds weight to the content of our pockets, we'll sit and stagnate with banks." It suggests that the focus on financial gain overshadows the potential for progress and meaningful change. The repeated phrase "If you stand for nothing you will fall for anything" emphasizes the importance of having strong beliefs and principles. It implies that without a firm stance on important issues, individuals are susceptible to manipulation and being taken advantage of. The lyrics also address the awareness of society's attempts to strip away people's dreams and means. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the constant challenges faced by individuals in pursuing their goals and aspirations. The defiant lines "You are not gonna take away our dreams, you are not gonna take away our means" express a determination to resist these attempts and maintain control over one's own destiny. Overall, "Quelle Surprise" criticizes the negative aspects of society, such as greed and manipulation, while encouraging individuals to stand up for their beliefs and not be easily swayed by external influences.
