Meaning of "Always on the Run" by Lenny Kravitz

The lyrics of "Always on the Run" convey the wisdom and guidance given to Lenny Kravitz by his mother. Through her words, she encourages him to navigate life responsibly and with purpose. The repetition of his mother's advice highlights its significance and serves as a reminder of the lessons imparted upon him. The line "Leave those bad boys alone" suggests that his mother wants him to avoid negative influences that could lead to trouble or harm. This reflects a desire for him to make wise choices and surround himself with positive influences.

The theme of responsibility continues with the line "Be home before the dawn." Here, his mother emphasizes the importance of being disciplined and accountable. By urging him to return home before daybreak, she emphasizes proper time management and the avoidance of risky situations that could hinder his success.

The idea of success is touched upon further with the lines "You can be rich or poor" and "You can be big or small." Kravitz's mother reminds him that material wealth and physical stature do not define a person's worth or happiness. This suggests that she values personal growth and contentment above societal norms or materialistic pursuits.

The second verse introduces the idea of living a balanced life. His mother advises him to be "fruitful" but not to "take more than a mouthful." This could signify her belief in the importance of living modestly, not being greedy or excessive, and appreciating what one has rather than constantly striving for more.

The line "That it's good to be natural" conveys the value his mother places on authenticity. This encourages Kravitz to be true to himself and not conform to societal pressures or expectations. The importance of truth and honesty is reinforced with the line "That it's good to be factual." This could speak to the importance of integrity and to not compromise one's values for personal gain.

The final verse introduces the voice of "Slash," possibly representing another person or a different perspective. The advice given is to avoid reckless behavior and to pursue goals vigorously. The line "That love's all that matters" suggests that love should be the driving force and ultimate purpose of one's actions and decisions.

Despite the guidance and wisdom passed down by his mother, Kravitz acknowledges that he is "always on the run." This may imply a restless and fast-paced lifestyle, constant pursuit of success, or an inability to fully settle and find contentment. Overall, the lyrics of "Always on the Run" highlight the importance of guidance, responsibility, authenticity, and love while also acknowledging the challenges and fast-paced nature of life.