Good Riddance
Billie Joe Armstrong and Elvis Costello Lyrics
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Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
So make the best of this task and don't ask why
It's not a question but a lesson learned in time
It's something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life
So take the photographs and still-frames in your mind
Hang it on a shelf in good health and good mind
Tattoos and memories and dead skin on trial
For what it's worth, it was worth all the while
It's something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life
It's something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life
It's something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life
The lyrics to Billie Joe Armstrong and Elvis Costello's song "Good Riddance" convey a message about embracing life's uncertainties and appreciating the fleeting moments that shape one's journey. The opening lines, "Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road, time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go," illustrate the inevitability of change and how time plays a crucial role in shaping our paths. This idea is further emphasized with the advice to "make the best of this task and don't ask why" because the true value lies in the lessons learned through experience.
The chorus repeats the sentiment that life is unpredictable, yet in the end, things tend to work out as they should. The line "I hope you had the time of your life" serves as a bittersweet farewell, expressing a desire for the listener to have cherished every moment and made the most out of their experiences.
The verses focus on the significance of memories and the importance of cherishing them. The suggestion to "take the photographs and still-frames in your mind" encourages capturing moments both physically and mentally. The metaphorical use of hanging these memories "on a shelf in good health and good mind" symbolizes treasuring them and keeping them safely preserved. The reference to "tattoos and memories and dead skin on trial" suggests that even though memories may fade or change over time, they still hold worth and shape who we are.
In summary, "Good Riddance" is a reflective song about embracing life's uncertainties, valuing the lessons learned along the way, and cherishing the fleeting moments that ultimately contribute to a rich and fulfilling life.
Line by Line Meaning
cnother turning point, a fork stuck in the road
Another moment of decision, a choice that is difficult to make
Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
Time controls and guides your actions
So make the best of this task and don't ask why
So, do your best in this situation and don't question it
It's not a question but a lesson learned in time
It's not an inquiry but a valuable lesson gained through experience
It's something unpredictable
Life is full of unexpected events
But in the end is right
However, it ultimately turns out to be for the best
I hope you had the time of your life
I hope you enjoyed and cherished your experiences
So take the photographs and still-frames in your mind
Capture memories through mental snapshots
Hang it on a shelf in good health and good mind
Store them safely and remember them well
Tattoos and memories and dead skin on trial
Permanent marks, recollections, and remnants being scrutinized
For what it's worth, it was worth all the while
Despite its value being subjective, it was worth the effort
It's something unpredictable
Life is full of unforeseen circumstances
But in the end is right
However, everything falls into place eventually
I hope you had the time of your life
I hope you enjoyed and made the most of your existence
It's something unpredictable
Life is full of surprises
But in the end is right
But eventually, things work out as they should
I hope you had the time of your life
I hope you had an amazing and fulfilling experience
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Vincent Del Nero
Simply amazing
Jason Nadle
Costello invented punk, Billie took it and ran with it.
Steve Buroojy
Coming up on the anniversary of this show in Atlantic City NJ....UNBELIEVABLE!!! May 19th 2006
J B
Um, WOW! Awesome!
Thorn Dela
I hope this opened the eyes of lots of young fans. Punk rock has been around for a while!
Pete
Um yeah...everyone knows punk rock started in the 70's
Joe Louis-Arena
@PeteThanks Didn’t know that
pannacotta sweet. D
I'm waiting for this thanks :))
YabbilyDoobily
Billie's reading the lyrics.
Akash Ichagutu
I've never seen this before.