The song "Wide Awake" by Johnny Hates Jazz is a commentary on the current state of society and the need for people to stay aware and engaged. The lyrics speak about the disconnect between reality and the virtual world, where people often hide behind a perfect dream or escape from reality through technology. The song suggests that when we close our eyes to the truth, we validate the lies and deceive ourselves. It questions whether we despise who we truly are inside or if we simply miss the genuine connections and experiences in life, such as the beauty of a kiss. The lyrics also highlight the issues of consumerism and the damaging impact it has on the planet. Love is said to have left the room, as people are now driven by the need to consume for economic growth. The song emphasizes that closing our eyes to these problems allows the planet to suffer, and it calls for people to stand and fight against the destructive patterns. Overall, "Wide Awake" encourages listeners to resist the distractions of the virtual world, to be aware of the problems in society, and to take action in order to bring about positive change. The repeated line "we've got to stay wide awake" serves as a call to action and a reminder of the importance of staying engaged and conscious in today's world.
