Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: goth
Song Meaning of “A Liberal Education” by New Model Army
A Liberal Education by New Model Army paints a vivid picture of political disillusionment among those who find themselves stuck in the urge of progress. The song speaks to the reality of being forced to find an alternative path despite the work that has been done to strive for justice.
The opening lines “Say goodbye to the good life and all its shallow changes of opinions” sets the tone as the singer begins to express his resistance to the restrictive norms and conventions of the society in which he lives. He searches for a way out, a “liberal education” that will ultimately set him free.
The lyrics delves into themes of economic and political oppression as the singer explores the static cycle of broken promises and demoralizing struggles that many find themselves bound in. He harshly criticizes societal expectations and the idea that progress is possible through economic justice while remaining bound by the invisible chains of societal expectations.
The chorus, “This is a liberal education, learn to adapt, learn the broken rules of the life we are in” speaks to the idea of personal and intellectual growth, as it serves as a reminder to free our spirit and look at life from a different perspective. While the song is an expression of sadness and political disillusionment, there is still hope that by facing these realities and gaining a deeper understanding, a new educate can arise.