A touring sideman, occasio… Read Full Bio ↴American drummer, percussionist and composer.
A touring sideman, occasional bandmember, and session musician, including regular collaborations with Sufjan Stevens.
Earth
James McAlister Lyrics
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Though it may have been insulted
Even if the Earth forgot
Her inheritance resulted
In contradiction, ceremony
Benediction, hallelujah
There are no more accidents
Explanations of their worth
We in turn avenge the Author
With paranoia and prediction
Exploration, competition
Ceremony, inner anguish
Lord I pray for us, hallelujah
Oh, hallelujah
Oh, hallelujah
Oh, hallelujah
Oh, hallelujah
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
Run, mission, run
Before we arrive
I see it
The beauty of the earth
On my death bed
But it's too late
I'm such an idiot
I see it
The beauty of the earth
On my death bed
But it's too late
I'm such an idiot
I see it
The beauty of the earth
On my death bed
I'm such an idiot
The lyrics of James McAlister's song "Earth" seem to touch on themes of innocence, the complexities of humanity's relationship with the Earth, and a sense of regret or realization that comes too late.
The opening lines, "Innocence was never lost / Though it may have been insulted / Even if the Earth forgot / Her inheritance resulted," suggest that even though innocence may have been challenged or disregarded, it still persists. The reference to the Earth forgetting might hint at humanity's disregard for the natural world and its consequences. The next lines, "In contradiction, ceremony / Benediction, hallelujah," could point to the paradoxical nature of human existence, where our actions often contradict our beliefs or ideals, but there is still room for ceremony, prayer, or celebration.
The following lines, "There are no more accidents / Living things refuse to offer / Explanations of their worth / We in turn avenge the Author," suggest a commentary on our tendency to seek control and explanations for everything, including the worth or purpose of living things. The mention of avenging the Author might hint at humanity's arrogance in trying to assert dominance over nature. Interestingly, the lines "Lord I pray for us, hallelujah" bring a sense of humility and reflection, as the singer acknowledges the need for divine intervention or guidance.
The repeated refrain of "Oh, hallelujah" throughout the song could be seen as a chorus of praise or recognition, emphasizing the complexities and contradictions of our relationship with the Earth.
Overall, these lyrics seem to encapsulate a sense of awareness, regret, and a plea for redemption in our treatment of the Earth and our fellow living beings.
Line by Line Meaning
Innocence was never lost
Innocence was never completely destroyed or taken away
Though it may have been insulted
Although it may have been disrespected or offended
Even if the Earth forgot
Even if the Earth seemed to have forgotten
Her inheritance resulted
Her legacy or rightful possession led to certain outcomes
In contradiction, ceremony
In opposition or conflict, there is a sense of ritual or formality
Benediction, hallelujah
A blessing or approval, praise or rejoicing
There are no more accidents
There are no longer any occurrences by chance or without intention
Living things refuse to offer
Living beings choose not to provide
Explanations of their worth
Explanations of their value or significance
We in turn avenge the Author
We seek revenge against the creator or origin of things
With paranoia and prediction
With excessive fear and anticipation of future events
Exploration, competition
The act of exploring or searching, and the rivalry or contest
Ceremony, inner anguish
Ritual or formal observance, accompanied by personal distress or torment
Lord I pray for us, hallelujah
I beseech the Lord for our well-being and express praise or rejoicing
Oh, hallelujah
Oh, praise or rejoicing
Run, mission, run
Move quickly and purposefully towards a goal
Before we arrive
Before we reach our destination or achieve our purpose
I see it
I perceive or comprehend
The beauty of the earth
The attractiveness or splendor of the planet
On my death bed
When I am about to die
But it's too late
However, it is already past the point of making a difference
I'm such an idiot
I acted foolishly or made a terrible mistake
Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, BMG Rights Management
Written by: Sufjan Stevens, Nico Muhly, Bryce David Dessner, James Van McAllister
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind