Meaning of "World" by Five For Fighting

The lyrics of "World" by Five For Fighting convey the concept of individual and collective responsibility in shaping the world we live in. The song begins with the idea of having a package full of wishes, symbolizing the power and potential within each person to make a difference. The references to a time machine, a magic wand, and a globe made out of gold represent the desire for change, the ability to transform reality, and the aspiration for a better world.

The absence of instructions or commandments and the mention of laws of gravity or indecisions to uphold highlight the freedom and autonomy that each person has in creating their world. There is a call to action to take a chance and grab a piece, inviting listeners to actively participate in shaping their surroundings. The lyrics encourage listeners to explore and envision the kind of world they desire, emphasizing the notion that anything is possible if we start at the start.

The mention of people or peoples, money, funny pedestals for fools who never pay, raising armies, and choosing steeples alludes to societal structures, power dynamics, and inequality. It suggests that in creating the ideal world, we should challenge and question these systems, avoiding the pitfalls of greed, corruption, and division. The line "Don't be shy, the satellites can look the other way" implies that we should not be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue our vision, as there are ways to bypass surveillance or societal pressures that attempt to suppress change.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of preserving what is essential while discarding what is harmful. "Lose the earthquakes, keep the faults" represents the idea of embracing imperfections and learning from them, while "Fill the oceans without the salt" suggests removing unnecessary hardships or obstacles. The line "Let every man own his own hand" advocates for personal agency and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of individual freedom and autonomy.

The mention of sunlight and tomorrow's calling signifies hope and the potential for a better future. The final repetition of "What kind of world do you want?" serves as a reminder to continuously reflect on our desires and take action to shape the world accordingly. Overall, the lyrics of "World" inspire listeners to be conscious of their wishes, to envision and actively work towards creating a world that aligns with their ideals, and to recognize that history begins with their actions.