Meaning of "Young Man" by Styx

The lyrics of "Young Man" by Styx delve into the harsh realities of life, particularly the burden placed on the young to fight battles, both literal and metaphorical, for the older generation. The song questions who is chosen to bear the brunt of violence and hardship, highlighting the sacrifices made by the youth. The repeated refrain of "Who can we get" emphasizes the disposability of young lives in the face of conflict and the demands of society. The juxtaposition of the elderly speaking wisely while sending the young off to their potential demise paints a bleak picture of a world where the future is uncertain and the young are left to bear the consequences of decisions made by those who came before them. The loneliness and sorrow expressed in the cry for a young man further underscore the impact of loss and tragedy. Overall, "Young Man" serves as a poignant commentary on the struggles faced by the next generation and the weight of expectation placed upon them.