Young & Tragic
Dead Man's Bones Lyrics


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I wish that we were magic
so we wouldn't be so young and tragic




Overall Meaning

The lyrics "I wish that we were magic, so we wouldn't be so young and tragic," from Dead Man's Bones's song Young & Tragic, convey a yearning for something greater than the mundane reality of life. The idea of being magic reflects a desire to transcend the limitations of human existence, to be something more than just young and tragic. The word "magic" implies a power and ability beyond rational explanation, a force that could transform the world and the self. By wishing to be magical, the singer is expressing a longing for a kind of transcendence that is not available in the normal course of things.


At the same time, the lyrics also suggest a recognition of the limits of human life and experience. The phrase "so we wouldn't be so young and tragic" acknowledges that youth is inherently tragic. To be young is to be full of potential, but also to be inexperienced and prone to making mistakes. This is a universal experience, one that all people must confront at some point in their lives. The song suggests that the only way to overcome this tragedy is to find a kind of magic, a power that can transform one's experience of the world and provide meaning and purpose.


Overall, "Young & Tragic" is a song about the human desire for transcendence in the face of the limitations of life. It suggests that the only way to overcome the tragedy of youth is to find something magical, something that can transform our experience of ourselves and the world around us.


Line by Line Meaning

I wish that we were magic
If only we had special powers or abilities, we could change our circumstances.


So we wouldn't be so young and tragic
Our youth is a hindrance and has led us to a path of sorrow and misfortune.




Contributed by Logan B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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