Meaning of "Gotta Go (Can't Wage a War)" by Kingdom Come

The lyrics of "Gotta Go (Can't Wage a War)" delve into the conflicting emotions experienced by a soldier who hears the call of war. The song conveys the uncertainty and fear that arise when faced with the prospect of fighting in a distant land and the desire to return unscathed. The narrator questions the impact of their actions and the sense of fighting for a cause they don't understand. The repeated refrain of "How can I face" highlights the internal struggle and moral dilemma they face. This struggle is further emphasized with the lyrics "Red is the sky" and "Shadows cross this bloody rain," which symbolize the violence and destruction brought about by war.

The lyrics also explore the futility of war and its toll on humanity. The lines "They can't wage a war if nobody shows" suggest that wars cannot be fought if people refuse to participate. This implies that the root of conflict lies in the willingness of individuals to engage in battle, making the concept of war futile if no one is willing to fight. The repetition of the phrase "Can't wage a war if nobody shows" serves as a statement of rebellion against the perpetuation of violence and a call for individuals to question the motivations behind warfare.

Furthermore, the lyrics express a yearning for peace and love amidst the chaos of war. The line "How can we stop the hurting? How can we love again?" reflects the longing to find a way to heal the wounds caused by violence and to restore compassion in the world. The lyrics appeal for a change and raise the question of why the world remains in turmoil, emphasizing the need to reevaluate the destructive nature of war and seek alternative paths towards resolution and understanding.