Advice For The Young At Heart

Tears For Fears' song 'Advice For The Young At Heart' is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of youth and the urgency to make meaningful connections and decisions before time slips away. The lyrics serve as a gentle reminder to the younger generation to seize the moment and make their relationships and lives work while they still have the chance. The recurring question, 'When we gonna make it work?' underscores the urgency and the need for action before it's too late.

The song delves into the contrast between the innocence of youth and the responsibilities of adulthood. Lines like 'Too many people living in a secret world' and 'We play little boys and girls' highlight the tendency of young people to live in a bubble, often avoiding the harsh realities of life. The metaphor of playing 'mother's and fathers' versus 'little boys and girls' suggests a reluctance to grow up and face adult responsibilities. The song encourages the young to break free from this make-believe world and take control of their lives.

Love is a central theme in the song, portrayed as both a promise and a souvenir—something precious that should never be forgotten or taken for granted. The lyrics 'Love is promise, Love is a souvenir, Once given, Never forgotten, never let it disappear' emphasize the enduring nature of true love. The song suggests that love is a powerful force that can guide and sustain us through life's challenges. The repeated line 'We've got the whole wide world in our hands' serves as an empowering reminder that the future is full of possibilities, but it's up to the young to make the most of it.