I Have No Time
Time's Warning: Reflections on Life's Frailty
Lyrics
I have no time to spend with you
Expresses a lack of time for the person addressed, suggesting a disinterest or busyness.
You talk of nothing, what can you do
Criticizes the person for talking about nothing and questions their capabilities.
You live like kings and you know it's true
Observes that some people live extravagantly ("like kings") and acknowledges this truth.
That if famine crossed the waters that'll be the end of you
Warns of potential dire consequences, possibly famine, and its impact on those living luxuriously.
I've heard of people who till the earth
References people who work hard cultivating the land ("till the earth").
Who saw their seeds for all they're worth
Highlights the dedication of those who sow seeds diligently, emphasizing their efforts' value.
Who cry for rain all summer long
Depicts the struggle of people who yearn for rain during the summer, a vital element for their crops.
And weep for the day when winter's passed and gone
Expresses longing for the end of winter, a challenging time, indicating hope for better days.
If cherry trees bore fruit of gold
Imagines a hypothetical scenario where cherry trees bear gold fruit, emphasizing the unnatural nature of such occurrences.
The birds would die, their wings would fold
Suggests a negative consequence even in seemingly positive scenarios, with implications for the delicate balance of nature.
They'd sing no more their song of love
Reflects on the silence that would follow if birds stopped singing due to the loss of their golden fruit.
Nor await the morning sun that lights the sky above
Describes the anticipation of the morning sun, underscoring the importance of natural cycles.
If war returns like it did before
Addresses the return of war, drawing parallels with past conflicts and their devastating impact.
A kiddy's penny would be no more
Highlights the devaluation of currency ("kiddy's penny") in times of war and economic instability.
They'd cry for love and their candy too
Suggests that, during war, people would prioritize more critical needs like love over trivial desires like candy.
But a kiddy's wants are nothing 'till killin' days are thru'
Asserts that the wants of children are insignificant until the days of killing or war come to an end.
So drink your fill be happy now
Encourages indulgence in the present moment, anticipating future changes.
The times will change and you'll wonder how
Predicts that times will change, prompting reflection on how happiness might be perceived in the future.
A man could die from lack of food
Addresses the serious consequence of death from lack of food, highlighting societal indifference.
But you don't give a damn, no reason why you should
Concludes with a critique of apathy towards the suffering of others, suggesting a lack of empathy.
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