Race for the prize
Flaming Lips Lyrics


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One, two, one!

Two scientists are racing
For the good of all mankind
Both of them side-by-side
So determined

Locked in heated battle
For the cure that is their prize
But it's so dangerous
But they're determined

Theirs is to win
If it kills them
They're just humans
With wives and children

Upwards to the vanguard
Where the pressure is too high
Under the microscope
Hope against hope

Forging for the future
But to sacrifice their lives
Both of them side-by-side
So determined

Theirs is to win
If it kills them
They're just humans
With wives and children

Theirs is to win
If it kills them




They're just human
With wives and children

Overall Meaning

The song "Race for the Prize" by Flaming Lips portrays two scientists racing to find a cure that would benefit all of humanity. The race between the two scientists is described as "heated battle" and "dangerous," yet they remain determined to achieve their goal. The pressure is high, and they are forging ahead for the future.


The song is a commentary on the human drive for progress, the pursuit of scientific discovery, and the sacrifices that come with it. The line "theirs is to win if it kills them" highlights the extreme dedication and passion that these scientists possess. They are not thinking about themselves but rather the greater good of society, and they are willing to put their lives on the line for it.


The song's chorus underscores the humanity of these two scientists. They are not unfeeling entities; they have wives and children. They are people, just like anyone else, with dreams, hopes, and a sense of purpose.


Overall, "Race for the Prize" is a powerful song that celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and discovery while acknowledging the sacrifices and risks that come with it.


Line by Line Meaning

Two scientists are racing
Two scientists are engaged in a race


For the good of all mankind
The race is for the betterment of humanity


Both of them side-by-side
Both the scientists are racing together


So determined
They are highly motivated to win the race


Locked in heated battle
The race has become quite intense


For the cure that is their prize
The victory in the race will result in a cure


But it's so dangerous
Despite the risks, they continue the race


Theirs is to win
Their ultimate goal is to emerge victorious


If it kills them
They are willing to give their lives for the victory


They're just humans
They are humans who can also make mistakes


With wives and children
They have families who depend on them


Upwards to the vanguard
They are moving towards the forefront


Where the pressure is too high
They are under immense pressure to succeed


Under the microscope
Their actions are being closely watched and scrutinized


Hope against hope
They continue to have hope despite the odds


Forging for the future
They are working towards a better future


But to sacrifice their lives
They are willing to give their lives for the future they envision




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: MICHAEL IVINS, STEVEN DROZD, WAYNE COYNE

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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