Found a job, heaven knows I’m miserable: Why this Smiths lyric feels ' real' for Gen Z
A Smiths lyric from 1984 has become an unlikely anthem for Gen Z’s relationship with work. Drawing on viral online stories and recent research, the article explores why young people feel burned out, disengaged, and dissatisfied both during the job hunt and after getting hired—and how many are questioning whether traditional work can still deliver meaning or fulfilment.
A Smiths lyric from 1984 has become an unlikely anthem for Gen Z’s relationship with work. Drawing on viral online stories and recent research, the article explores why young people feel burned out, disengaged, and dissatisfied both during the job hunt and after getting hired—and how many are questioning whether traditional work can still deliver meaning or fulfilment.
