Lyrics
Words and music by John Kay and Michael Wilk
Introductory credits for the song's creators, John Kay and Michael Wilk.
Got nothin' more to show ya, there ain't no more to say
Expressing a lack of additional information or words to share, implying a situation of exhaustion or frustration.
You know the mess we made, it just will not go away
Acknowledging a problematic situation that persists and cannot be easily resolved.
It's what we get for acting like a herd of sheep and swine
Criticizing collective behavior, comparing it to mindless animals, and highlighting the consequences of such actions.
It's time to pay the piper and we're running out of time
Emphasizing the need to face the consequences of past actions, with time running out.
We got to change the way we do the things we do
Calls for a change in behavior and actions for a better outcome.
And we need everyone aboard to make it through
Stressing the importance of collective effort for success.
It's do or die, we got to turn the ship around
Highlighting a critical situation where decisive action is necessary.
It ain't no lie, we're 'bout to burn, we're about to drown
Stating the urgency of the situation and the imminent threat of failure.
It's do or die, we got to learn or we'll go down together
Reiterating the critical choice between success and failure as a group.
There ain't no captain here to teach us how to steer
Pointing out the absence of clear leadership or guidance.
There's just the crew, that's me and you
Emphasizing that the responsibility falls on the collective "crew," the general population.
There ain't no easy answer, there ain't no magic tricks
Highlighting the complexity of the issues without easy solutions or shortcuts.
It can't wait until tomorrow, you can't fix it in the mix
Rejecting procrastination and emphasizing the need for immediate action.
Come join the rainbow warriors, help us fight this dirty war
Encouraging unity in facing a common adversary, referring to individuals as "rainbow warriors."
The enemy is everywhere, he's waitin' right behind your door
Warning about the pervasive and imminent threat from the adversary.
We got to hold the line or go down in defeat
Stressing the importance of holding one's ground to avoid defeat.
Do what you can to help, take only what you need
Encouraging responsible and sustainable actions, taking only what is necessary.
It's do or die, we got to turn the ship around
Reiterating the need for a significant change in direction to avoid failure.
It ain't no lie, we're 'bout to burn, we're 'bout to drown
Reemphasizing the urgency and impending danger of the situation.
It's do or die, we got to learn or we'll go down together
Reiterating the collective responsibility to learn and adapt or face consequences together.
There'll be no Calvary to come and set us free
Highlighting the absence of external rescue or salvation, emphasizing self-reliance.
There's just the sea and you and me
Emphasizing the vastness and unpredictability of the challenges ahead, with only the sea and individuals to rely on.
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