"Tin Omen" by Skinny Puppy is a politically charged song that references major historical events, specifically the 1970 Kent State shootings and the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre. Skinny Puppy uses the lyrics to express anger and disillusionment with governmental and military violence against civilians. The title itself alludes to "Tin Soldiers," a phrase often used to describe soldiers carrying out orders without question, paralleling themes of control, repression, and authority.
The song's intense sound and lyrical content mirror the chaos and horror associated with these tragic events, emphasizing society’s vulnerability to both violent enforcement and the manipulation of public perception. Skinny Puppy's work in this song reflects their longstanding interest in social and political issues, critiquing unchecked power and the ways it affects innocent lives.
For more insight into the meaning, you can check sources like CallMeFred and Infogalactic.