The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
Been so many words, so much to say
Words are not enough to keep the guns at bay
Some live in fear, some do not
Some gamble everything on who gets the final shot
Oh, don't talk to me of love
It's obvious it's not enough
Annihilation kill 'em all
Capitulation watch the mighty fall
The road to glory is lined in red
And though the reason now is gone
The battle rages on
Was it love or hate that got here first?
Hate's a habit, it's hard to shake the curse
Kill to live, and live to die
Human nature you let the strong survive
Oh don't talk to me of love
Be serious, it's not enough
Annihilation kill 'em all
Capitulation watch the mighty fall
The road to glory is lined in red
And though the reason now is gone
The battle rages on
Words are not enough to keep the guns at bay
Some live in fear, some do not
Some gamble everything on who gets the final shot
Oh, don't talk to me of love
It's obvious it's not enough
Annihilation kill 'em all
Capitulation watch the mighty fall
The road to glory is lined in red
And though the reason now is gone
The battle rages on
Was it love or hate that got here first?
Hate's a habit, it's hard to shake the curse
Kill to live, and live to die
Human nature you let the strong survive
Oh don't talk to me of love
Be serious, it's not enough
Annihilation kill 'em all
Capitulation watch the mighty fall
The road to glory is lined in red
And though the reason now is gone
The battle rages on
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In 1993... the tension between Blackmore and Gillan came to a head and Gillan was fired, even DP was thinking of another vocalist but the DP anniversary brought him back. So i think this song about the whole thing between Gillan and Blackmore. One of my favourite songs of the album.. not the best thing DP ever did but its pretty good.
The whole theme of Gillan/Blackmore tension and differences is also themed on the album cover which is brilliant by the way.
ALL DP songs are great! All of them. I am definitely one of their biggest fans from when they had their original lineup. They don't have any bands now that compare to them. Exqusite songs and talented musical ability at its' best! ROCK ON guys and girls. And, make sure to LISTEN to their music!