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Live and Let Die
Wings Lyrics


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When you were young and your heart was an open book
You used to say live and let live
(You know you did, you know you did, you know you did)
But if this ever changing world in which we're living
Makes you give in and cry

Say live and let die
(Live and let die)
Live and let die
(Live and let die)




What does it matter to you?
When you got a job to do
You got to do it well
You got to give the other fellow hell

You used to say live and let live
(You know you did, you know you did, you know you did)
But if this ever changing world in which we're living
Makes you give in and cry

Say live and let die
(Live and let die)
Live and let die
(Live and let die)

Overall Meaning

The song "Live and Let Die" by Wings is an anthem of defiance and perseverance in the face of chaotic and tumultuous times. The opening lines of the song speak directly to the ideals of youth, where the world is viewed through rose-colored glasses and the mantra of "live and let live" is followed without question. However, as we mature and are confronted with the harsh realities of life, the world becomes more complex and difficult to navigate. In this ever-changing world, it's easy to become overwhelmed and succumb to despair. This is where the powerful chorus comes in, exhorting the listener to "live and let die". Instead of giving up or giving in, the message is clear: we must persevere and move forward, even in the face of adversity.


The lyrics go on to emphasize that there will always be a job to do, and it's up to us to do it well, even if it means giving the other fellow hell. This line speaks to the idea that sometimes we have to be tough and assertive to accomplish our goals, especially in a world that can be cutthroat and unforgiving. Despite this, the message remains one of resilience and determination: we may have to fight to get what we want, but we should never give up.


Line by Line Meaning

When you were young and your heart was an open book
Back in the day, you weren't afraid to show your emotions


You used to say live and let live
You used to believe everyone should live their life in their own way


(You know you did, you know you did, you know you did)
You were confident and sure about your beliefs in living and allowing others to live


But if this ever-changing world in which we're living
But in this world of constant change, where things get tough and complicated


Makes you give in and cry
If it brings you down to the point of tears


Say live and let die
Then it's time to accept that some things must end and things must come to their natural conclusion


(Live and let die)
It's better to let things go than to hold on and suffer more


What does it matter to you?
Why obsess about things that shouldn't concern you?


When you got a job to do
When you have a task on your plate


You got to do it well
You should put all your heart and soul into it


You got to give the other fellow hell
You should do it fiercely and unrelentingly


You used to say live and let live
You used to have a more relaxed, live and let live attitude


(You know you did, you know you did, you know you did)
You were convinced of the validity of that idea


But if this ever-changing world in which we're living
But in this ever-changing world


Makes you give in and cry
If it makes you feel overwhelmed and defeated


Say live and let die
Just let it go, let it run its course and come to an end


(Live and let die)
It's easier to leave it to fate than to try to control everything and suffer more




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Linda McCartney, Paul James McCartney

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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