The song "Television Lies" by Jebediah criticizes the influence and manipulation of the media, particularly television, on society. It suggests that television distorts reality and feeds people with false depictions of an ideal life, creating fantasies and setting unrealistic expectations for how people should live. The lyrics highlight the dishonesty of television, referring to it as a liar. The "hype machine" represents the exaggeration and promotion of certain lifestyles and narratives. The song suggests that these lies and false portrayals are used to draw people in and create a spectacle. The mention of "the life that dreams are made of" and "having it all" implies the glamorous and perfect life often portrayed on television. However, the song argues that this version of reality is unattainable and illusory. It suggests that people are willing to sacrifice and give up anything to try and achieve this ideal, even though they will never truly win the game that television presents. The repeated question, "Call that something?", followed by the response "I call it nothing," amplifies the song's message that television's portrayal of reality is ultimately empty and meaningless. It criticizes the superficiality and shallowness of the pretty boys and pretty girls who are always depicted as successful and having fun. The lyrics also express a sense of resignation, as the damage caused by television's influence is seen as irreversible. The line "forget the free advice m'man 'cos the damage has been done" suggests that the song is reflecting on the harm already done by the media's manipulation of reality. Overall, "Television Lies" challenges viewers to be skeptical and critical of the images and messages they consume through television. It serves as a reminder that reality is often far from what is portrayed, and that striving for an idealized life based on television's portrayal is ultimately futile.
