Story Behind The Song

Most of my songs are a social commentary, focusing on current affairs at that time, but try to be subtle and not overt in there message. Waging war, whilst on the face of it is quite explicit in it's message, tries to be more complex in its composition, as while it is written in first person, it is not necessary the same person throughout the song. It tries to examine the moral dilemma when making huge decisions such as sending a country to war, and whether people ask the right questions of themselves, and how they then live with those decisions. I think when looking at recent conflicts such as Libya, the messages contained in the song are still prevolent.

Song Description

The song was written around the time of the Iraq war. Its inspiration was the question, or at least the moral implications, of making a decision to send a country to war. Whilst the verses give the background and examine the difficulty in making these decisions, the chorus tries to lay it out explicitly, how black and white it really is.

Lyrics

Kick back your heels three times, and I'll sing a song that makes you feel good.
And I listen to Brand New, for inspiration when I write this for you.

I sing for the people, who dream alone for a night they can keep.
And I try to reason, with every man who can make this night alright.

And everybody said, that you don't have to wage war.
And everybody said, that you don't have to kill the poor.

Make up your mind tonight, 'cos after this there's no turning back.
All these decisions, these resolutions where do I fit in?

Remember London, shouting aloud to uphold our rights.
It can't be easy, one soul is all then you're damned for life.

And everybody said, that you don't have to wage war.
And everybody said, that you don't have to kill the poor.

And if I upset you I will take it in my stride.
'Cos I know that I'm approaching, the end of the line.

So Goodbye.