Meaning of "When You're Young" by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

"When You're Young" captures the essence of childhood through vivid storytelling, mentioning characters like Uncle Chive, Ugly Kate, and Johnny Rass. The lyrics paint a picture of a time when the worries of the world seemed far away, and everything looked rosy and full of wonder. The mention of playing in a tiny town, chasing rabbits, and singing songs by the sea evoke a sense of carefree joy and innocence that is often lost as we grow older. The line "Heaven help the one percent, we're not going to pay our rent on time" could be interpreted as a rebellion against societal norms and responsibilities that seem burdensome in adulthood. Overall, the song celebrates the beauty of being young, where colors are brighter, days are longer, and the world is full of endless possibilities.