Babylon
Brendan Perry [Ark] 2010 Lyrics

Spirit rise to greet the sun
The singer is feeling uplifted and hopeful, as though they are greeting the rising sun with their own spirit.

Takes my hand and beats the drum
The spirit mentioned in the previous line seems to be guiding the singer, leading them in a lively, rhythmic beat.

Tries to make me understand
Despite the guidance of the spirit, the singer is still seeking comprehension and clarity regarding their situation.

We're as one in a sea of sand
The artist feels a deep connection to the world and to others, even in the midst of their current life circumstances.

I'm praying for rain
The artist desires relief from the arid, difficult conditions they are currently facing.

To see desert flowers again
The singer longs for a return of beauty and vibrancy in their surroundings.

Underground the children sing
Even the hidden, unseen parts of the world contain energy and hope, as represented by the singing children in this line.

In spite of what the storm may bring
Despite the potential for adversity and danger, the children's hope remains undaunted.

In their hearts a dormant seed
The children's hope is rooted deep within them, waiting to spring into life when conditions permit.

Dreams of life beyond the reeds
The children's hope and potential extend far beyond their current, seemingly limited environment.

In our hearts and minds we see
The singer and others like them possess an inner vision of what is possible, despite outward appearances.

The hope that springs eternally
This hope is unquenchable and perennial, like the growth that persists even in a desert climate.

Whilst underground the hidden stream
There is energy and life force flowing beneath the surface of things, unseen by most.

Flows into the man machine
This life force is harnessed to fuel the progress and machinery of society.

The eagle flies up towards the sun
This majestic bird represents freedom and hope, as it soars high above the world below.

High above the fields of Babylon
The eagle's flight is taking place in a specific location (Babylon), which likely has symbolic significance.

In one claw he holds an olive branch for peace
The eagle carries a symbol of peace in one of its sharp talons, suggesting a hopeful vision for the future.

In the other twelve arrows for his enemies
The eagle is also armed and ready to defend itself and its ideals against opposition.

For his enemies
The eagle's stance is one of readiness and preparedness against potential threats, even as it holds hope for the future.

Sons and Daughters of America
The artist is addressing a specific group of people, namely Americans.

You lay down your lives
The artist acknowledges the tremendous sacrifice of those who have given their lives in service of a cause.

For the warlords of America
However, the artist feels that these sacrifices are ultimately made in service of those in power and not for the greater good.

Not for your sake not for mine
The singer sees the larger forces at play in the world and feels a sense of disconnection from these motivations.