The Measure of a Man
Phoenix Lyrics


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But how did he died
But how did he live
But what did he gain
But what did he give.

But how did he died
But how did he live
But what did he gain
But what did he give.


Refren:
This are the units to measure a worth
Of a man, regardless of birth.


Was he ever ready
With a soul of good cheer
To bring back a smile
To bannish a tear.

Was he ever ready
With a soul of good cheer
To bring back a smile
To bannish a tear

Refren:
This are the units to measure a worth
Of a man, regardless of birth.

But what was his station
But had he a heart
And how did he play
Gis God given birth.

But what was his station
But had he a heart
And how did he play
Gis God given birth.

Refren:




This are the units to measure a worth
Of a man, regardless of bïrth.

Overall Meaning

Phoenix's song "The Measure of a Man" is a reflective and introspective piece that raises some fundamental questions related to a human being's worth. The chorus clearly states the units that determine the worth of a man- "regardless of birth," implying that a person's worth is not determined by their social status, wealth, or any external factors, but by certain humane attributes such as kindness, compassion, and generosity.


The first verse asks about the circumstances of a man's death and life, thus emphasizing the importance of living a fulfilling life that adds value to the world. The second verse questions what a man has given and gained, and whether he has been capable of spreading joy and wiping away tears. These lines suggest that a genuinely purposeful life is one that contributes to others' happiness and alleviates their sufferings.


The last verse questions a man's status, heart, his use of God-given birth, and how he played his role in life. The questions here are hinted at by the singer's use of past tense, suggesting that the man under question is no longer alive. This verse reiterates the importance of living life in a way that we are remembered for long after we are gone, and that to make our existence meaningful, we need to love and touch lives in a positive way.


Line by Line Meaning

But how did he died
What were the circumstances of his death


But how did he live
How did he spend his time while alive


But what did he gain
What did he acquire in his lifetime


But what did he give
What did he offer or contribute to the world


Was he ever ready
Did he possess a willingness to assist others


With a soul of good cheer
Did he have a positive attitude


To bring back a smile
Did he have the ability to make others happy


To bannish a tear
Did he have the ability to comfort those who were upset


But what was his station
What was his social class or rank


But had he a heart
Did he have compassion and empathy for others


And how did he play
How did he perform in life


Gis God given birth
The talents and abilities given to him by God


This are the units to measure a worth
These are the elements that determine one's significance


Of a man, regardless of birth.
Regardless of social class or rank




Contributed by Thomas M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

Addicted ToRock123

@Trashcu nu. este un mesaj catre toti romanii care si-au pierdut speranta...

Trashcu

Ce e cu "All is not Lost"? E titlul alternativ al melodiei? Mulţumesc.

Frank Schneidereit

Nico where you have been when he ( Paul Jellis ) past away here in Sisaket / Thailand ( I have send you message ) shame

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