200 Years

Accept's song '200 Years' paints a vivid and haunting picture of a world devoid of human life, two centuries after a catastrophic event. The lyrics describe a desolate landscape where cities have crumbled, and nature has reclaimed its dominance. The imagery of 'lights out forever' and 'cities reduced to rubble' sets the tone for a post-apocalyptic scenario where human civilization has been obliterated. The mention of 'roaches rule the land' and 'no more civilization, only shadows remain' emphasizes the complete eradication of human presence, leaving behind a world where only the most resilient creatures survive.

The song delves into the consequences of humanity's actions, suggesting that the final war and subsequent destruction were the result of human folly. The lines 'no more death or pollution... Population zero!' and 'no more traffic and madness, no more nuclear power' highlight the absence of human-induced problems, implying that the earth is better off without mankind. This theme is further reinforced by the repeated refrain 'Welcome to the stone age, two-hundred years after mankind,' which underscores the idea of a world reset to a primitive state, free from the technological advancements and societal structures that once defined it.

'200 Years' also touches on the concept of nature's resilience and the cyclical nature of life. The lyrics 'continental glaciers scrape the planet clean' and 'earth again will thrive' suggest that despite the devastation, the planet will eventually heal and flourish without human interference. The song's bleak yet thought-provoking message serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of humanity's actions and the fragile balance between civilization and nature. By envisioning a world where 'paradise has been erased' and 'no one left to blame,' Accept invites listeners to reflect on the impact of their choices and the legacy they leave behind.