The meaning of Eyes Not Remotely Open by Rise Against

Rise Against is an American punk rock band known for their energetic live performances and socially conscious lyrics. Their song "Eyes Not Remotely Open" is a powerful critique of modern society's tendency to ignore the struggles of others.

The lyrics of the song are deeply personal, with lead vocalist Tim Armstrong drawing from his own experiences with social isolation and disconnection. He sings about feeling like he's stuck in a rut, unable to truly connect with others despite being surrounded by people. The line "Eyes not remotely open" is particularly striking, as it suggests that even when we're physically present with others, our emotional and spiritual eyes can remain closed.

Throughout the song, Armstrong's lyrics are laced with frustration and desperation. He rails against the superficiality of modern life, where people are more concerned with their social media profiles than genuine human connection. The chorus is a plea to others to open their hearts and minds, to truly see and understand each other despite our differences.

Musically, "Eyes Not Remotely Open" is a high-energy rock song with a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar solos. The production is polished but not overly so, allowing the raw emotion of Armstrong's vocals to shine through.

Overall, "Eyes Not Remotely Open" is a thought-provoking and deeply personal song that speaks to the need for genuine human connection in today's fast-paced world. Rise Against's music often tackles tough topics like social justice and activism, but this song is more introspective, focusing on the importance of empathy and understanding in our daily lives.