We Kill The World/Don't Kill The World

Boney M.'s song 'We Kill The World/Don't Kill The World' is a poignant commentary on the environmental degradation caused by human activities. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the destruction wrought by industrialization and urbanization. The imagery of 'atomic mushrooms' and 'missiles in the sky' evokes a sense of impending doom, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of technological advancements when misused. The repeated lament of 'Poor world, poor world' underscores the sorrow and helplessness felt in the face of such widespread environmental damage.

The song delves into specific examples of environmental harm, such as the replacement of parks with concrete structures, the pollution of air and water, and the destruction of natural habitats. The lines 'Fishes doomed to die / As people live close by' and 'Parking lots will come / Where flowerfields were bright' illustrate the direct impact of human encroachment on nature. The chorus, 'We kill the world, kill the world / 'Cause we don't know what we are doing,' serves as a stark reminder of the ignorance and negligence that contribute to environmental destruction.

In the latter part of the song, Boney M. shifts from a tone of despair to one of hope and urgency. The plea 'Don't kill the world / Don't let her down' calls for immediate action to preserve the environment. The lyrics emphasize the importance of cherishing and protecting the Earth, described as a 'present from God' and the 'foundation of life.' The song encourages listeners to take tangible steps to reduce pollution and slow down harmful progress, with the promise that 'the one who wins is you.' This message of environmental stewardship is both a warning and a call to action, urging humanity to recognize the value of the natural world and to act responsibly to ensure its survival.