The song "Harmless" by Helmet appears to be about a person who is described as being comfortable with their ignorance and obliviousness, similar to a poison dunce. The speaker suggests that this person has been sterilized, which can be interpreted as being mentally or emotionally devoid of depth or intelligence. The lyrics imply that this person has always been given too much leniency or forgiveness for their actions, which has allowed them to get away with their lack of accountability. They are described as being primed to have a great time due to their obliviousness. The song also touches on the idea that this person has been fed a diet of false information and manipulated by others. The lies they believe in are compared to packaged and homogenized milk, emphasizing the artificial and fabricated nature of their reality. The speaker suggests that the myth of impassiveness being equated to intelligence is perpetuated to maintain control over this person. Despite their shortcomings, the speaker acknowledges that this person can still be seen as a star, comparing them to accomplished liars. This implies that their ability to deceive and manipulate can lead to success or achievement in society. The message seems to be that this person should never let a good opportunity to lie or deceive pass them by. Overall, the song "Harmless" criticizes the destructive power of ignorance and apathy while acknowledging the potential success that can be achieved through dishonesty and manipulation.
