The song "Face The Nation" by John Hiatt is a critique of media and political manipulation. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist's mind is finally clearing, possibly indicating a realization or awakening. They question the sound they're hearing, which is described as chainsaws on bone and gristle, metaphorically representing the destruction caused by biased media and political propaganda. The protagonist expresses determination and resilience with lines like "I've got my pencil sharpened, I will not be disheartened." They refuse to be disenchanted even though they acknowledge that the news is often slanted and manipulated. The song references popular news programs like "Face the Nation" and "Sixty Minutes" as well as wire services, criticizing them for providing excuses and attempting to induce fear and anxiety in their audience. The protagonist dismisses the problems being presented by the media as overrated and inflated headaches. They urge others to stop engaging in mindless chatter and listen to their own voice instead. The reference to a chipmunk asking "what's the matter?" suggests a condescending view towards those who blindly follow the media. The protagonist asserts their own ideas and emotions, stating that they are entertained by their own notions and propelled by raw emotions. They encourage others to put down mainstream news outlets like Time and Newsweek and instead listen to their own perspective. The lyrics also challenge the notion of an idealized America, referring to the absence of pulse, waves of grain, purple mountains, and glory. This could be interpreted as a critique of the exaggerated and manipulated narratives surrounding patriotism and national identity. Overall, "Face The Nation" is a call to question and resist the influence of media manipulation and bias, encouraging listeners to think for themselves and not be swayed by manufactured narratives.
