The lyrics of "Highwire" by The Rolling Stones address the idea of selling weapons and military equipment to different parties, acknowledging the greed and lack of accountability in the business of war. The song criticizes the manipulation and lies that come with international conflicts and the moral implications of profiting from warfare.

Meaning of "Highwire" by The Rolling Stones

The lyrics of "Highwire" paint a grim picture of the military-industrial complex, focusing on the individuals and entities that profit from warfare and the consequences this has on a global scale. The references to selling missiles, tanks, and providing credit to buy weapons highlight the role that money plays in perpetuating conflicts around the world. The notion of walking the highwire signifies the precarious balance between power, greed, and the lives of those who are sent into the front lines. The repeated calls to get up, stand up and talk to the boss or man right away emphasize a sense of urgency to confront those responsible for perpetuating war. The imagery of hot guns and cold lies reflects the brutal reality of armed conflicts, where violence is justified with deceit and manipulation. Overall, the song serves as a scathing critique of the military-industrial complex and the moral ambiguity surrounding profiteering from warfare.