World War Three
Jedediah Parish Lyrics
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gasoline cowboys with drugstore nerve
heaven, hell or hoboken by christmas eve
it doesn't need to be world war three
it doesn't need to be world war three
ww3
pewee matilda and jungle juliets
loong leather necks and leather nectarines
it doesn't need to be world war three
it doesn't need to be world war three
ww3
mud lark pig sticker
french fever rough rider
hammer and tongs in the land of the free
it doesn't need to be
The lyrics of Jed Pettish’s song World War Three is a commentary on the reckless and self-destructive nature of humanity. The song is an ode to the chaos and destruction of the world that can be brought about by individuals who have no regard for the consequences of their actions. The opening lyric, “japanese sugar in a hitler hearse, gasoline cowboys with drugstore nerve,” conjures images of past world wars and dictators, and the chaos they wrought. The powerful imagery highlights how seemingly innocuous actions can have disastrous long-term impacts.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that these characters are not just from wartime history, but a commentary on the current state of the world. The line, “pewee matilda and jungle juliets, chicago piano redball express, loong leather necks and leather nectarines” has a more modern feel, referencing specific people or groups and their potential to cause destruction. The line “it doesn't need to be world war three” is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the idea that small or isolated incidents can have global ramifications.
Overall, World War Three is a political and social commentary on the destructive nature of humanity. Through the use of vivid imagery and powerful lyrics, the song conveys the message that we must be responsible for our actions or risk bringing about our own downfall.
Line by Line Meaning
japanese sugar in a hitler hearse
A juxtaposition of cultural symbols, possibly representing the blending of war and innocence.
gasoline cowboys with drugstore nerve
People who act with false courage and bravado, in a situation where there is no need for such behavior.
heaven, hell, or hoboken by christmas eve
A possible reference to the possibility of a military draft, with the destination being a place that will either result in life or death for those drafted.
it doesn't need to be world war three
Stating that the situation at hand does not warrant the intensity of a global conflict.
pewee matilda and jungle juliets
Possibly a reference to the role of women in war, with names that sound like characters from a playful story.
chicago piano redball express
A reference to the rapid mobilization of troops during World War II, and the role that transportation played in that effort.
loong leather necks and leather nectarines
A play on words, with leather necks possibly referring to sailors or soldiers, and leather nectarines not having a clear meaning.
mud lark pig sticker
Difficult to interpret, possibly referencing weapons or tactics used in combat.
french fever rough rider
Another play on words, with French Fever possibly referencing a disease and Rough Rider referencing the famous cavalry regiment of Theodore Roosevelt.
hammer and tongs in the land of the free
A metaphor for going all out, with the land of the free possibly referencing the US and the idea of personal freedom that is valued in the country.
Contributed by Emma H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.