Older And Wiser

The song 'Older And Wiser' by Serious Black delves into the existential angst and societal observations that come with aging. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment with society and the feeling of being out of place or at odds with the prevailing norms. The mention of 'rabid dogs upon your heels' and the suggestion to 'take another test' to gauge emotions reflect a world where one is constantly under scrutiny and pressure to conform. The phrase '9 out of 10 ain't bad' seems to be a sarcastic remark on the pursuit of perfection and the acceptance of mediocrity as a norm.

The song also touches on the theme of bureaucracy and the search for meaning, suggesting that both the mundane and the profound experiences ('acts of God and me') are merely 'machinations of this world.' This line hints at a sense of futility and the struggle to find authenticity in a world that often feels artificial or controlled. The chorus encapsulates the core message of the song, highlighting the inevitability of aging ('you're older') but questioning the assumption that age brings wisdom ('but none the wiser'). It's a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the often unfulfilled expectation that with age comes greater understanding and insight.

The final verse introduces a plea for truth and a desire for growth in wisdom, not just in years. The singer yearns for the ideal of becoming 'older and wiser,' a state that seems elusive in the context of the song. The repeated requests for confirmation ('Tell me it's true') underscore a longing for reassurance that such growth is possible, despite the doubts and challenges presented throughout the song. Serious Black, known for their melodic power metal style, uses this track to explore deeper philosophical questions, setting them to a backdrop of powerful instrumentation and emotive vocals.