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.
Who am I without this hope?
You're holding on, I'm letting go
And so I drift out of control
A tragedy without your hope
Who am I without this hope?
Progress is getting away
But I still see it, and I will follow
What would become of me if I stayed here?
I'd rather not know
Knock me down, please knock me down
I'm better off when I'm on the ground
You say so much without a sound
I'd hear you more if I'd just slow down
You're holding on, I'm letting go
And so I drift out of control
A tragedy without your hope
Who am I without this hope?
Progress is getting away
But I still see it, and I will follow
What would become of me if I stayed here?
I'd rather not know
Knock me down, please knock me down
I'm better off when I'm on the ground
You say so much without a sound
I'd hear you more if I'd just slow down
Lyrics submitted by L-Kyne
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This is one of my favorite songs. https://fnfgo.io
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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.
Blue
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“Blue” is a song about a love that is persisting in the discomfort of the person experiencing the emotion. Ed Sheeran reflects on love lost, and although he wishes his former partner find happiness, he cannot but admit his feelings are still very much there. He expresses the realization that he might never find another on this stringed instrumental by Aaron Dessner.
Amazing
Ed Sheeran
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Ed Sheeran tells a story of unsuccessfully trying to feel “Amazing.” This track is about the being weighed down by emotional stress despite valiant attempts to find some positivity in the situation. This track was written by Ed Sheeran from the perspective of his friend. From the track, we see this person fall deeper into the negative thoughts and slide further down the path of mental torment with every lyric.
Eustace, similar to the Greek name "Eústachys" meaning "Fuitful."
I believe this song is about the singers relationship with God and the realization that God is speaking to him, but he hasn't been listening. He has become too busy with life, and God and his word are being ignored. As a result he is no longer being fruitful or growing in life or in his faith.
"Who am I without this hope?"
He is realizing that he is less without the hope and peace he has with faith in Christ. It's not to say he lost that hope, but he is remembering what it means to have it.
"You're holding on, I'm letting go"
God always remains faithful, never giving up on us even when we give him the cold shoulder.
"And so I drift out of control A tragedy without your hope"
When God is no longer a priority in our life, we get distracted by worldly things and sin. We lose sight of the bigger picture and begin living outside of God's will for us.
"Progress is getting away But I still see it, and I will follow What would become of me if I stayed here? I'd rather not know"
He is losing progress and no longer moving forward. His faith is no longer being fruitful. If he doesn't make a move and get back on track, there will be terrible consequences.
"Knock me down, please knock me down I'm better off when I'm on the ground"
Often times, God has to disrupt our own plans to force us to turn our attention back to him. The singer is saying he would be better off down on the ground in life and focused back on God than he would continuing down his current path.
"You say so much without a sound I'd hear you more if I'd just slow down"
God speaks to us so much even if we don't hear him physically. He speaks to our hearts and through his word, the Bible. However, we are usually not listening because we are focused on worldly things and the busyness of life. If we would just slow down, we could hear what God has to say.