Song: “Golden Words”

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Behind the Song

I reworked “Golden Words” a lot, hashing out the wording of the final verses a half dozen times and scribbling others that never made it into the song.

But it all started with the opening line, “I’m ready for a revelation, a lever to lift this nation.” Those words enrobed the song in a religious/messianic aura which glows in the chorus, “Rejoice! Rejoice!”

Rejoice for what, though? The arc of the song makes it clear that it’s not for divine intervention. Instead, the singer rejoices in the prospect of a better place, reached by our feet, molded by our hands, guided by our ideas.

Ideas that shine.

Lyrics

I'm ready for a revelation
a lever to lift this nation
a vision to vault us over these rolling waters.

'Cause we're heading to a crossing
where the waves are high and tossing
best we build a bridge we all can fit on.

And I know you don't believe me,
and I don't pretend it's easy,
but I think our road is leading to the promised land.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't forget you have a voice
sing it soft or loud
as long as you are heard.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't throw away your choice
'cause we need your help to coin more golden words.

I've had it with half-baked heroes
playing games that sum to zeroes
who feast as we fight fumbling over table scraps.

Even they know their meal is empty
even though they swim in plenty
there's a hunger in their souls they won't admit to.

And though you may not believe me,
'cause even I know it's not that easy,
but I think our road is leading to the promised land.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't forget you have a voice
sing it soft or loud
as long as you are heard.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't throw away your choice
'cause we need your help to coin more golden words.

Why must we always fight?
Before we can see what's right?
Take a breath, and take it slow
'cause we've still got a long way to go.

Embrace your brightest reason
for seeking a saner season
warm it in your heart like a tender seedling.

Then water it with laughter
save your tears for after
your roots entwine with others just as strong as.

One day you may believe me,
even though it's never easy,
to take the road that's leading to the promised land.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't forget you have a voice
sing it soft or loud
as long as you are heard.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Don't throw away your choice
'cause we need your help to coin more golden words.