The lyrics of Harvey Danger's song "Underground" depict a sense of loss and isolation. The opening lines describe the protagonist's inability to see themselves in the mirror and feeling green and cold as the sea. They are unable to close their eyes or dream, suggesting a lack of imagination or hope. The song then transitions into a warning against complacency in the face of mistakes. It is not acceptable to simply stand around and hope nobody notices. The protagonist promises consequences if the mistake is repeated, including filling one's mouth with a sour taste and an inability to hear or sing. The chorus reflects a sense of betrayal, with the protagonist asking why they would not ridicule or hurt the other person. The final lines of the song suggest an eternal sense of suffering, but with the promise of confession and the need for one another. The meaning and story of "Underground" are open to interpretation but could be seen as a warning against complacency and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. It could also explore the fragility of relationships and the ways in which we can betray or hurt the ones we love.
