Lyric discussion by jacob10744 

Cover art for Warriors lyrics by Imagine Dragons

This song reminds me of America (my favorite song from Night Visions). I think it's about a revolution (perhaps the American Revolution), and the song is one revolutionary talking to another like a mentor:

"As a child you would wait And watch from far away. But you always knew that you'd be the one That work while they all play."

That last line for me means that the people seemed to ignore what was going on, and just went with it. The revolutionaries would have to change things (That work while they all play) It could also be an allusion to the fact that the British exploited the Americans to pay off their war debt.

"In youth you'd lay Awake at night and scheme Of all the things that you would change, But it was just a dream!"

Pretty straightforward. The revolutionaries wished for change individually but, without assembling, it seemed as a dream. The dream could also be their goal.

"Here we are, don't turn away now, We are the warriors that built this town. Here we are, don't turn away now, We are the warriors that built this town From dust."

Awesome chorus. It just says to keep hope and faith in what you do. (If we continue in the American revolution subject, the town could be a metaphor for the US)

"The time will come When you'll have to rise Above the best and prove yourself, Your spirit never dies!"

Farewell, I've gone to take my throne above, But don't weep for me 'Cause this will be The labor of my love"

The mentor has died, perhaps from fighting the revolution. He prays that the other revolutionary will take his place, continue the fight and be courageous.

My Interpretation