I think this song is less an attack on past members but rather Axl's vindication of himself. I think it is written against the backdrop of years of criticism and speculation about the his life and the band, especially in the years between the end of the Use Your Illusion tour and Chinese Democracy.
I think a large portion of the song, especially the first few stanzas, is about how Axl meant well even if he seemed vindictive or unpleasant in the media. He's defending his intentions, declaring how he was misunderstood, and saying how uncomfortable he felt pretending to fit in with the kingmakers and the journalists (stanza beginning "why would they tell me to please those").
I think the next few stanzas are clearly about a specific person and love situation, but I think the themes are still the same - feeling of rejection despite (misunderstood) good intentions.
My favourite line in this entire song and album is: "Ask yourself why (I think 'what' in these lyrics is a mistake, but I've seen both online) I would choose to prostitute myself to live with fortune and shame". I think it's basically Axl coming back at those who expected him to repent and to do certain things, especially reforming the band before he was ready. He's saying: 'I don't care how much respect or money it earns me, I'm pursuing my own path for now'. A masterpiece, to be honest.
I think this song is less an attack on past members but rather Axl's vindication of himself. I think it is written against the backdrop of years of criticism and speculation about the his life and the band, especially in the years between the end of the Use Your Illusion tour and Chinese Democracy.
I think a large portion of the song, especially the first few stanzas, is about how Axl meant well even if he seemed vindictive or unpleasant in the media. He's defending his intentions, declaring how he was misunderstood, and saying how uncomfortable he felt pretending to fit in with the kingmakers and the journalists (stanza beginning "why would they tell me to please those").
I think the next few stanzas are clearly about a specific person and love situation, but I think the themes are still the same - feeling of rejection despite (misunderstood) good intentions.
My favourite line in this entire song and album is: "Ask yourself why (I think 'what' in these lyrics is a mistake, but I've seen both online) I would choose to prostitute myself to live with fortune and shame". I think it's basically Axl coming back at those who expected him to repent and to do certain things, especially reforming the band before he was ready. He's saying: 'I don't care how much respect or money it earns me, I'm pursuing my own path for now'. A masterpiece, to be honest.