Meaning of "Names And Races" by Foreign Fields

The lyrics of "Names And Races" explore themes of hope, despair, and the futility of human efforts in the face of destruction and violence. The beginning of the song sets a tone of uncertainty and questioning, as the narrator is sat down and told that everything will be alright. However, this reassurance is quickly contradicted by the reality of the world around them. The line "You said we were the only good guys, that we carried the light" suggests that the narrator's faith and trust in those who claimed to do good has been shattered.

The mention of carrying the light in their aching bodies can be interpreted as the burdens and pain that they bear as they attempt to navigate a world filled with suffering. This notion is further emphasized with the repetition of the line "And the ashes fall on the children's faces, on their names and races." The ashes represent destruction and death, and their indiscriminate fall on children regardless of their identities or backgrounds highlights the sense of injustice in the world. This imagery also suggests a loss of innocence and a somber recognition of the harsh realities of life.

The mention of the end of time and waiting on the fading seashore adds an existential element to the lyrics. It speaks to a sense of impending doom and the finality of their situation. There is a feeling of resignation and acceptance in the face of an inevitable decline. The repeated line "We're still trying to live" reveals the resilient spirit of the narrator, despite the overwhelming despair that surrounds them. It symbolizes the enduring human instinct for survival, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

Overall, "Names And Races" conveys a sense of despair, questioning, and the struggle to maintain hope in a world filled with suffering and uncertainty. It speaks to the universal human experiences of loss, injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit.