I'd have to agree with EvilVulture in regards to the meaning of this song.
I think "the worst joke ever" refers to the paradox of talented people who "make it big" but can't deal with their sudden success/fame and end up self-destructing.
Many of Stipe's friends have met such a fate, ex: Kurt Cobain, River Phoenix and more recently, Heath Ledger.
I'd have to agree with EvilVulture in regards to the meaning of this song.
I think "the worst joke ever" refers to the paradox of talented people who "make it big" but can't deal with their sudden success/fame and end up self-destructing.
Many of Stipe's friends have met such a fate, ex: Kurt Cobain, River Phoenix and more recently, Heath Ledger.