Before Your Very Eyes

Atoms For Peace's song 'Before Your Very Eyes' delves into the transient nature of time and the inevitable passage from youth to old age. The lyrics open with a contemplative question, urging the listener to look out the window and observe what is passing by. This sets the tone for a reflection on the fleeting moments of life and the urgency to seize opportunities while one is still young and vibrant. The phrase 'keys to the kingdom' symbolizes the potential and opportunities available to the young, emphasizing the importance of taking action before time slips away.

The repetition of 'sooner or later' and 'before your very eyes' serves as a haunting reminder of the inevitability of aging and change. The song suggests that no matter how much we try to hold on to our youth, time will eventually catch up with us. The imagery of an 'old soul on young shoulders' highlights the wisdom that comes with age, even if it is carried by someone still in their youth. This juxtaposition underscores the tension between the desire to remain young and the acceptance of the aging process.

The lyrics also touch on themes of forgiveness and taking chances. The 'book of forgiveness' implies that as we age, we must learn to forgive ourselves and others for past mistakes. The 'fickle card game' of time suggests that life is unpredictable, and we must be willing to take risks and embrace the uncertainty of the future. Ultimately, 'Before Your Very Eyes' is a poignant meditation on the passage of time, urging listeners to live fully in the present while acknowledging the inevitability of change.