Darwin's Children
Darwin's Children: Evolving Reflections on Human Nature
Lyrics
Seven million years of progress handed down on silver wings
Reflecting on seven million years of human progress symbolized by technological advancement ("silver wings").
Of gossamer and protein still we haven't learned a thing
Despite advancements in technology and biology, humanity has not gained wisdom or understanding.
Are we caught up in our anger, locked up in our rage
Questioning if human emotions like anger and rage hinder our evolution and adaptation.
In the opera of selection on this our earthly stage
Comparing life to an opera, exploring the concept of natural selection as a dramatic performance on Earth.
And Charlie's spinning laughing, laughing in his grave
Referring to Charles Darwin ("Charlie") who is metaphorically laughing in his grave.
Laughing at the prophecy, the prophecy he gave
Highlighting the irony of Darwin's predictions and prophecies coming true.
Can we spread our wings like angels, can we break out of the grind
Questioning if humans can transcend their limitations and evolve spiritually or morally.
Are we destined to be Darwin's children this time
Pondering if humanity is fated to be the next stage of Darwinian evolution.
The ribbons of our cigarettes vanish in the air
Symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life through disappearing cigarette ribbons.
In the glow of our great teacher we sit and blankly stare
Describing people's apathy and lack of awareness in the presence of a great teacher, possibly referring to Darwin.
And the sky could open up and what would we have to say
Pondering humanity's response if faced with a momentous event or revelation.
Something cute about burning out, better than fading away
Suggesting a preference for a bold, impactful end over a gradual decline.
And Charlie's spinning laughing, laughing in his grave
Reiterating the idea of Charles Darwin finding irony or amusement in the unfolding events.
Laughing at the prophecy, the prophecy he gave
Emphasizing the laughter at the fulfillment of Darwin's prophecies.
Can we spread our wings like angels, can we break out of the grind
Questioning the potential for human transcendence and breaking free from mundane routines.
Are we destined to be Darwin's children this time
Revisiting the idea of humanity being destined to follow the course of Darwinian evolution.
On the wings of invention now we hurdle toward our fate
Describing the current era as propelled by inventive advancements, heading towards an uncertain fate.
As sure as the sunset burns
Expressing the inevitability of a significant change or conclusion, likened to a burning sunset.
Collective resignation, evolutionary fate
Referring to collective acceptance of fate as an outcome of evolutionary processes.
When will we ever learn
Pondering when humanity will learn from its history and evolutionary experiences.
And Charlie's spinning laughing, laughing in his grave
Reiterating the image of Charles Darwin finding amusement in the unfolding events.
Laughing at the prophecy, the prophecy he gave
Emphasizing the continued fulfillment of Darwin's prophecies and the laughter that accompanies it.
Can we spread our wings like angels, can we break out of the grind
Questioning the possibility of humanity transcending its limitations and breaking free from routine.
Are we destined to be Darwin's children this time
Revisiting the idea of humanity being destined to follow the course of Darwinian evolution.
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