The song is a powerful indictment of internet culture’s obsession with irony, mockery, and performative criticism, particularly in spaces like social media where sincerity is often ridiculed. It critiques those who tear down others’ efforts without creating anything themselves, highlighting the emotional and cultural cost of this "cringe machine." Yet, it also implicitly calls for resistance by valuing authenticity and courage over cynicism.

Cringe Machines

Winnipeg composer, retired from the farm, still chasing meaning in melody. My work lives where TV cues meet YouTube soundscapes, with a few albums in between. Built in Mixcraft Pro, fuelled by late-night coffee, stubborn curiosity, and a Stoic’s sense of timing. Also writing on politics, history, and philosophy, because sound isn’t my only instrument.

Cringe Machines

Wayne Mathison