We live in the world where many of the actions of our leaders are destructive and detract from the quality of life of billions of people. Lies, deception and propaganda are built deep into not only our politics but also our economics and belief systems.
What does one do when acting right according to society is going against our care and love of humanity? What does one who yearns to be life affirming and compassionate do when they are demanded to hate and kill?
The singer in the song underestimated the ability of the war and fear mongers to manage public opinion. He knows he is no match to challenge them in any competitive arena. He also realizes his appeals to have them lessen their desire to dominate or win at all costs will fall on deaf ears.
Though he knows that they are liars and manipulators he has a hard time remembering the truth. Only when he closes his eyes and concentrates can he hold on to his humanity and sense of what is right.
It’s hard to be contrite when doing right makes one wrong
Hard to put up a fight when you’re feeling alone
When wrong is viewed as right, when day becomes night,
Are our tears the last thing that’s free?
lyrics
When Right is Wrong 10/13/06
I concede you ran the table
You were right and I was wrong
I admit I wasn’t able
To look into the crystal ball
I did not heed your skill
Of bending others to your will
I forgot how well you lied
Telling stories day and night (that incite)
You’ve no shame you little devil
You feel worthy of adoring throngs
You start wars and rob the cradle
As you proudly bang the gong
You’ve turned all upside down posed the predator as the prey
Put freedom in a cage set the world aflame
It’s hard to be contrite when doing right makes one wrong
Hard to put up a fight when you’re feeling alone
I put trust in my brothers’ thinking
That he’d see right thru your bull
But my trust could well prove fatal
For the moon of doom is waxing full
You can cheat your way to heaven
Killing children of those who protest
Or who wish to live their own life
Who don’t feel secure ‘neath your watchful eye
I can see you have the power
Controlling all their heart and minds
I concede you own the table
We are witnesses to your suicide (genocide)
You’ve turned all upside down posed the predator as the prey
Put freedom in a cage set the world aflame
It’s hard to be contrite when doing right makes one wrong
Hard to put up a fight when you’re feeling alone
If I close my eyes, and try with all of my might, I can still feel what’s real
There’s not much I can say, the games rigged that way, where I won’t foster hate
When wrong is viewed as right, when day becomes night,
Are our tears the last thing that’s free?
credits
from Priorities,
released January 14, 2017
Drums Lucio Guido
Vocals Jim Guido
Sax Jim Guido
Horns Jim Guido
Synth Jim Guido
Bass Jim Guido
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