Meaning of "Crimes On Paper" by Self

The lyrics of "Crimes On Paper" delve into the concept of legacy and the enduring impact of our actions and creations. The song begins by reminiscing about the past, highlighting the potential power individuals had to change the world during the Vietnam era. The reference to saving the planet and saturating the tape speaks to the idealism and activism of that time. The lyrics then shift to the present, with the narrator reflecting on the advice given by friends to be vigilant and avoid becoming just another tragic story in the obituary. The repetition of the phrase "Crimes on paper" suggests a sense of futility in trying to capture the complexities of existence and human experience through mere words. The final verse contemplates the idea of being remembered in the future, questioning the accuracy of the legends that will persist over time. Ultimately, the song seems to grapple with the idea of permanence and the uncertainty of how our lives will be remembered once we are gone.