Empire Now

Hozier's 'Empire Now' is a song that seems to reflect on the passage of time and the cyclical nature of history, particularly focusing on the rise and fall of empires and the hope for a better future. The repeated lines about the sun coming up 'one hundred years from the empire now' suggest a significant distance from a past era, possibly hinting at the decline of a once-dominant power and the emergence of a new world order. The lyrics evoke a sense of optimism, as if the speaker is witnessing the dawn of a more peaceful and equitable era, 'a world that's easy now,' which contrasts with the turbulent times of the past.

The chorus, where the speaker declares they wouldn't sell the world despite its current trajectory, and would hold on to it 'for all it's worth,' indicates a deep connection and commitment to the world's future. This sentiment is reinforced by the line 'The future's so bright it's burnin',' which could be interpreted as both a warning about the potential dangers of progress and a statement of hope for a luminous future. The mention of 'martyrs of our revolution' and the earth-shaking impact of their actions suggests that the changes leading to this new dawn have come at a significant cost, and that the sacrifices made in the past are powering the present and shaping the future.

Hozier, known for his soulful voice and poetic lyrics that often delve into themes of love, politics, and social issues, presents 'Empire Now' as a contemplative piece. It invites listeners to ponder the relentless march of time, the lessons learned from history, and the collective responsibility to foster a world that is just and sustainable for generations to come.