"Fast car" is kind of a continuation of Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run." It has all the clawing your way to a better life, but in this case the protagonist never makes it with her love; in fact she is dragged back down by him.
There is still an amazing amount of hope and will in the lyrics; and the lyrics themselve rank and easy five. If only music was stronger it would be one of those great radio songs that you hear once a week 20 years after it was released. The imagery is almost tear-jerking ("City lights lay out before us", "Speeds so fast felt like I was drunk"), and the idea of starting from nothing and just driving and working and denigrating yourself for a chance at being just above poverty, then losing in the end is just painful and inspiring at the same time.
My mind, out of my mind, in my mind's eye
You've got mirrors in front of your eyes
You can't see truth for self-obsession
Compromise, why don't you live your life
Are you so scared you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the sun?
Are you scared, you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the water?
In time you will arrive with a clear mind
You'll be sure, you're not afraid of a freefall
Words can't say all the things that you feel
No faith that they'll outlive you anyway
Down and out but no one's writing a book
Altruistic or just trying to shine bright
Are you scared you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the sun, as you stare into the water?
You've got mirrors in front of your eyes
You can't see truth for self-obsession
Compromise, why don't you live your life
Are you so scared you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the sun?
Are you scared, you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the water?
In time you will arrive with a clear mind
You'll be sure, you're not afraid of a freefall
Words can't say all the things that you feel
No faith that they'll outlive you anyway
Down and out but no one's writing a book
Altruistic or just trying to shine bright
Are you scared you'll be forgotten
As you stare into the sun, as you stare into the water?
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More Featured Meanings
Fast Car
Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
Bron-Y-Aur Stomp
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
This is about bronies. They communicate by stomping.
Son Şansın - Şarkı Sözleri
Hayalperest
Hayalperest
This song seemingly tackles the methods of deception those who manipulate others use to get victims to follow their demands, as well as diverting attention away from important issues. They'll also use it as a means to convince people to hate or kill others by pretending acts of terrorism were committed by the enemy when the acts themselves were done by the masters of control to promote discrimination and hate. It also reinforces the idea that these manipulative forces operate in various locations, infiltrating everyday life without detection, and propagate any and everywhere.
In general, it highlights the danger of hidden agendas, manipulation, and distraction, serving as a critique of those who exploit chaos and confusion to control and gain power, depicting a cautionary tale against falling into their traps. It encourages us to question the narratives presented to us and remain vigilant against manipulation in various parts of society.
When We Were Young
Blink-182
Blink-182
This is a sequel to 2001's "Reckless Abandon", and features the band looking back on their clumsy youth fondly.
Just A Little Lovin'
Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield
I don't think it's necessarily about sex. It's about wanting to start the day with some love and affection. Maybe a warm cuddle. I'm not alone in interpreting it that way! For example:
"'Just a Little Lovin’ is a timeless country song originally recorded by Eddy Arnold in 1954. The song, written by Eddie Miller and Jimmy Campbell, explores the delicate nuances of love and showcases Arnold’s emotive vocals. It delves into the universal theme of love and how even the smallest gesture of affection can have a profound impact on our lives." https://oldtimemusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-song-just-a-little-lovin-by-eddy-arnold/
Great Song...
I really love this song. Its amazing how with Justin the band sounds so much like Tool. They're very different, of course, but he just makes it.