Meaning of "Ancient World" by Abney Park

The lyrics of "Ancient World" by Abney Park address the theme of cultural decay and the loss of beauty in the face of industrialization and modernization. The song mourns the gradual destruction of historical landmarks and traditional structures, which are being erased to make way for commercial developments like shopping malls. The lyrics express a deep concern about humanity's disregard for preserving the past and its rush towards a bleak future driven by materialism and consumerism. The reference to a "deconstructive race" hints at a society that is actively dismantling its own cultural heritage in pursuit of progress. The repeated refrain "We run to the end and the future follows, we run to the end from bleak tomorrows" underscores the cyclical nature of this destruction, suggesting that despite the warnings, mankind is destined to repeat its mistakes and continue on a path towards cultural and environmental collapse. Overall, the song serves as a poignant commentary on the consequences of sacrificing the old for the new, and the urgent need to reevaluate our values and priorities before it is too late.