This song laughs at the idea that technological or social innovation is really progress. The narrator is proud (Miles Standish -- one of the first American colonialists -- proud) and wants to be congratulated. But the "progress" is simply change, not advancement.
The power of innovation is respectable (a "tiger") but it doesn't lead forward ("run around the tree") -- just in circles. The tigers in "Little Black Sambo" end up destroying themselves for their efforts.
The development of a consumerist culture enrichens a few ("the powers") and is silently approved of, and thus allowed to continue.
The words "life's rich" are a micro-homage to a previous REM album title.
This song laughs at the idea that technological or social innovation is really progress. The narrator is proud (Miles Standish -- one of the first American colonialists -- proud) and wants to be congratulated. But the "progress" is simply change, not advancement.
The power of innovation is respectable (a "tiger") but it doesn't lead forward ("run around the tree") -- just in circles. The tigers in "Little Black Sambo" end up destroying themselves for their efforts.
The development of a consumerist culture enrichens a few ("the powers") and is silently approved of, and thus allowed to continue.
The words "life's rich" are a micro-homage to a previous REM album title.