I just heard an interview that Ed had on 92.3 WKRX (?) in New York. He said that he had the lyrics for a few years and last year while on tour, he re-edited it based upon things he views on the news (Palestine, school shootings, etc). However, it was definitely written and finalized before 9/11 (1 year to the date, RIP all...). Despite this, for many, as noted above and elsewhere, it has taken on 9/11 connotations. Nevertheless, I think it is a great song.
I just heard an interview that Ed had on 92.3 WKRX (?) in New York. He said that he had the lyrics for a few years and last year while on tour, he re-edited it based upon things he views on the news (Palestine, school shootings, etc). However, it was definitely written and finalized before 9/11 (1 year to the date, RIP all...). Despite this, for many, as noted above and elsewhere, it has taken on 9/11 connotations. Nevertheless, I think it is a great song.