Discography:
1989 - Piece of Time
1991 - Unquestionable Presence
1993 - Elements
2009 - Unquestionable Presence: Live at Wacken
2010 - Jupiter
The Formative Years
Atheist Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
That I have spent here
In this ghastly plane
I've come to find
There are so many things
That should be changed
Like the relationship
Between the elder and the youth
To all our problems
And that's the truth
Ambition, floods our hearts
In a world in which
We must succeed
If it's only in our eyes
Connoisseur of Opportunity
Release your stubborn nature
Don't electrify the seed
Rectify the need
We know you speak with them
Your close but very far
Communication is essential
Like the light to stars
No need to tell them no
No need to slap their hands
These are the formative years
You would not understand
We know you speak with them
Your close but very far
Communication is essential
Like the light to stars
No need to tell them no
No need to slap their hands
These are the formative years
You would not understand
The Formative Years by Atheist is a song that addresses social issues and calls for change. The lyrics convey a message of frustration with the way things are and a desire to improve them. The opening lines suggest that the singer believes the world is a terrible place and there are many things that need to be changed. The song specifically addresses the relationship between elders and youth and how it contributes to societal problems. The singer believes that misunderstandings and miscommunication between generations lead to issues that could be avoided.
The next part of the song calls for ambition and success but with a warning to release stubbornness and not to electrify the seed, which is likely a metaphor for youth or innovative ideas that need nurturing. The lyrics urge the listener to rectify the need for better communication between generations, highlighting the importance of understanding the formative years of the youth. The second half of the song is a repetition of the message that communication is essential and there is no need to punish or be harsh with young people during their formative years.
The song uses metaphors and poetic language to convey its message. It calls for listeners to take ownership of their attitudes, to communicate better, and to understand the importance of fostering positive relationships with young people. It speaks to a universal desire for positive change and promotes a message of positivity and hope.
Line by Line Meaning
In the short time
During my brief existence
That I have spent here
On this earth
In this ghastly plane
In this world full of suffering
I've come to find
I have realized
There are so many things
There are numerous issues
That should be changed
That must be addressed
Like the relationship
One example is the dynamic
Between the elder and the youth
Between older and younger generations
It lights the fuse that leads
This is a catalyst that causes
To all our problems
Many of our issues
And that's the truth
This is a fact
Ambition, floods our hearts
A strong drive to succeed fills us
In a world in which
In a society where
We must succeed
Success is crucial
If it's only in our eyes
Even if it is just a personal goal
Connoisseur of Opportunity
Expert in recognizing chances
Release your stubborn nature
Let go of your obstinacy
Don't electrify the seed
Don't ruin new beginnings
Rectify the need
Address the problem
We know you speak with them
You communicate with them
Your close but very far
You are physically nearby, but emotionally distant
Communication is essential
Effective communication is critical
Like the light to stars
Like a guiding force
No need to tell them no
Don't just say 'no'
No need to slap their hands
Don't punish them harshly
These are the formative years
This is a crucial time for development
You would not understand
You may not fully comprehend the significance
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: KELLY R. SHAEFER, RAND BURKEY, ROGER PATTERSON, STEVE FLYNN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind