Meaning of "Start Now" by Rancid

"Start Now" delves into the themes of war, destruction, and the longing for peace. The opening lines signify the continuous cycle of violence and conflict happening in the world. The mention of strangers in the mist alludes to the emergence of new enemies and conflicts that plague the modern times. The lyrics emphasize the destructive nature of war and the inhumanity of committing atrocities. Rancid critiques those in power who contribute to man-made catastrophes, portraying them as aggressors responsible for causing widespread suffering.

The chorus introduces the desire for change and the yearning for peace. The protagonist expresses their disinterest in engaging in a fight, emphasizing the importance of moving past blame and focusing on creating a better future. Releasing the dove into flight symbolizes the need for peace and unity, emphasizing the urgency to start making a positive change immediately.

The song further examines the consequences of war, particularly the displacement of people. The mention of a small key opening the door to a new land signifies the search for refuge and a fresh start away from the chaos of war. However, even in the new land, the turmoil continues as symbolized by the roaring sandstorm. The reference to Machiavelli owning a machine gun suggests the manipulation and control that those in power exert over others. The mask and puppeteer imagery alludes to the deceptive nature of those who orchestrate conflicts.

The bridge section expands on the theme of war and its impact on humanity. It indicates that the blame does not lie with humanity as a whole, but rather with those who play the larger game of power and control. The lyrics delve into the destructive nature of hostility and the loss of clarity and compassion that follows. The mention of blindfolding prisoners of war portrays the disregard for human life and the dehumanization that occurs.

The final lines of the song challenge the notion of violence as strength. Rancid dismisses the idea of being a "big puncher" or a powerful force through aggression. The sarcastic laughter at the end underlines the absurdity of such thinking and reinforces the importance of seeking peace and understanding.