The Growlers' song "Social Man" discusses the concept of living in a society driven by social media and the negative effects it can have on individuals. The lyrics describe a person who is constantly seeking validation and approval from others, playing the role of a "cool" person in a game of tags. This "Social Man" is portrayed as a lonely individual who is constantly changing their behavior to fit in and keep up with the ever-changing social rules. The song suggests that this constant need for validation and the pressure to conform can be harmful to one's true self. The line "heartless heart, it's hard to choose" implies the difficulty of staying true to one's own values and desires in a superficial and judgmental society. The metaphor of "underneath the glassy waters, lies a churning whirlpool" represents the hidden turmoil and conflict within oneself caused by the pressures of social expectations. The lyrics also highlight the dangers of relying too much on social media for self-worth and connection. The line "What you lost should not concern you, lurking from far, don't mean that it can't hurt you" suggests that the constant comparison and seeking validation from others can be detrimental to one's emotional well-being. The song emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from the social media world and reconnecting with oneself. "Social man must remember how to disconnect" serves as a reminder to focus on personal growth and authenticity rather than seeking approval from others. The lyrics also touch on the topic of fake friendships and relationships in the social media age. The line "Most of your friends ain't friends at all, how many ghosts can one soul hold?" suggests that many social connections are superficial and insincere. The constant need to be on high alert and the fear of being exposed or judged contribute to a sense of loneliness and isolation. Overall, "Social Man" explores the struggle of maintaining true authenticity in a society dominated by social media and the importance of disconnecting from this virtual world to find genuine happiness and connection.
