Between Thieves' first album under Tattoo was a self-titled offering released in 1997 that included the hit "Despite The Rain". After the album release and a tour with "Code of Ethics", three members left the band. Remaining members Jason Wesson and Jason Davis reformed the band with James Yourman (Bass) and Josh Watkins (Guitars) and they released another album entitled "Water" in 1998.
I'm Alive
Between Thieves Lyrics
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On paraffin wings and a prayer
I'm pushed the limit, now I've gone too far
I've gone further than most would dare
I'm alive
Heaven know I've found my freedom
Closer to You
And I will keep pressing forward
Closer to You
New horizons where no one else has been before
A side of life I've never seen
Beyond restraints that held me to the ground
Broken the fear of mystery
Questions will arise
The birth of unbelief
But I have seen His face
The hand of God will be my strength
The opening lines of Between Thieves's "I'm Alive" convey a sense of reckless abandon and danger: "Flying on way too close to the sun / On paraffin wings and a prayer." The singer has been pushing the limits of what's safe or wise, and they are aware of the risks involved ("I've gone further than most would dare"). However, despite the potential for disaster, the singer feels a sense of liberation and empowerment: "I'm alive / Heaven knows I've found my freedom / Closer to You." The capitalized "You" suggests that this newfound sense of vitality may be rooted in a spiritual or religious experience.
As the chorus continues, the singer affirms that they will continue to push forward ("And I will keep pressing forward / Closer to You"), seeking out new horizons and experiences that may be uncharted or unfamiliar ("New horizons where no one else has been before / A side of life I've never seen"). The singer has broken free from the "restraints that held me to the ground" and conquered the "fear of mystery." This experience has allowed them to see the divine ("I have seen His face"), and they believe that God's hand will provide them with the strength they need to face whatever comes their way.
The final lines acknowledge that there will likely be challenges and uncertainties along the way ("Questions will arise / The birth of unbelief"), but the singer is confident in their newfound sense of purpose and direction. They have embraced a bold and adventurous spirit, and they believe that this journey will lead them ever-closer to the divine presence that has given them new life.
Line by Line Meaning
Flying on way too close to the sun
I'm taking an immense risk that could result in my downfall
On paraffin wings and a prayer
I'm relying on luck and faith to keep me afloat
I'm pushed the limit, now I've gone too far
I've surpassed what I thought was possible and it might come at a cost
I've gone further than most would dare
I'm exploring uncharted territory and pushing beyond what others would attempt
I'm alive
Despite the risks I've taken, I am still breathing and have survived
Heaven knows I've found my freedom
I have found liberation in my adventurous spirit, even though it may be dangerous
Closer to You
My experiences have brought me closer to some higher power or guiding light
And I will keep pressing forward
I'm not done exploring and taking risks, there's still more to discover
New horizons where no one else has been before
I'm venturing into uncharted waters, exploring new territory that no one else has seen or experienced
A side of life I've never seen
My adventures are exposing me to new experiences in life that I never knew existed
Beyond restraints that held me to the ground
I'm breaking free from the limitations that once held me back from fully experiencing life
Broken the fear of mystery
I've overcome my fear of the unknown and am embracing the mystery of life
Questions will arise
Despite my experiences, I may still have doubts or questions about what I believe
The birth of unbelief
My questioning may lead to a lack of faith or uncertainty
But I have seen His face
However, I have had some kind of spiritual encounter or experience that gives me strength
The hand of God will be my strength
I draw strength from a higher power, which enables me to continue exploring life with courage and curiosity
Contributed by Mila G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.