Meaning of "Watch It Die" by Bad Religion

"Watch It Die" offers a stark commentary on the state of the world and the impending doom that humanity seems to be carelessly heading towards. The song begins with a reminder that the planet, while it has been around for a long time, is now reaching a point where its destruction is unavoidable. The reference to being born on planet Earth suggests that humans are not separate from the natural world, but rather a part of it. However, the subsequent lines reveal the damage caused by mankind's actions.

The lyrics mention a man on the "big blue screen" who embodies the world economy and its inequality. This figure, who represents those in power, asserts that the rich will never concede. However, he will eventually meet his own demise, serving as a symbol of the collapse of a corrupt system that benefits the few at the expense of the many.

Bad Religion then shifts the focus to the natural world, describing the vibrant life of the forest and the deep blue sea. But even these adaptations that have thrived over time will soon be extinguished. The lyrics emphasize the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death and extinction.

The song also touches on the notion of human agency and responsibility. The line "And we're sitting in the pilot's seat" suggests that humans have control over their destiny and the fate of the planet. However, the dark horizon, the people praying for salvation, and the implication that humanity has ignored warning signs all point to a dire future.

Ultimately, "Watch It Die" is a plea to open one's eyes to the reality of the world. It criticizes those who have had the chance to make a difference but have chosen complacency instead. The repetition of the line "Now it's time to watch it die" serves as a somber reminder that the consequences of our actions, or lack thereof, have brought us to this point.