Was it just a dream, were you so confused
Was it just a giant leap of logic
Was it the time of year, that makes a state of fear
Methods were the motives for the action

And did I hear you say
My country right or wrong

Did you save your face
Did you breach your faith
Women, there were children at the shelter
Now who can stop the hail
When human senses fail
There was never any warning, no escape

Did I hear you say
My country right or wrong
My country oh so strong
My country going wrong
My country right or wrong

I hear you say the truth must take a beating
The flag a camouflage for your deceiving
I know, yes I know
It's written on your soul
I know, we all make mistakes

This is not a case of blurred vision
It's a case of black holes, pocket holes, soul holes

And did I hear you say...

(Hirst)


Lyrics submitted by Chris_Gough

My Country Lyrics as written by Martin Rotsey James Moginie

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

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My Country song meanings
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3 Comments

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  • +2
    General Comment

    This song was released about the time that Pauline Hanson was elected to parliament. Her political views were right-wing and anti-Asian immigration and anti-Aboriginal welfare, wrapped up in the banner of patriotism. Although not necessarily about Hanson the sentiments are there. The Oil's later song "Redneck Wonderland" however has Hanson clearly in its sights.

    chrisb1on February 06, 2010   Link
  • +1
    Song Meaning

    I think this refers to the bombing of the al-Amriyah shelter in Baghdad during the gulf war (by American planes).

    dawn.com/2011/02/16/iraq-shelter-bombed-by-us-remains-frozen-in-time.html

    And did I hear you say My country right or wrong

    Did you save your face Did you breach your faith Women, there were children at the shelter Now who can stop the hail When human senses fail There was never any warning, no escap

    MarionDelgadoon March 05, 2011   Link
  • 0
    General Comment

    this is my favourite midnight oil song. I think the lyrics are about using patriosm as a tool to blind the public to all the political skulduggery that goes on. Very poignant at the moment - like Dylan, the Oils' songs will always be relevant, which, sadly doesn't say much for the progress of society.

    willia05on February 12, 2005   Link

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