Sign Of The Times
Queensrÿche Lyrics


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Heading for the classroom yesterday
The kids file through the metal machine
It finds what they may hide
No it just ain't right
A sign of the times

Another church is burning to the ground
Looking for the vandals and they're nowhere to be found
But the hate's alive
A sign of the times, Sign of the times
A sign of the times, Sign of the times

Would someone please let me know how we have spun out of control?
Has the captain let go of the wheel?
Or could we please try to find a way to be a bit more kind?
I see the road to tomorrow in the haze!

On the Senate floor they congregate
Many pockets lined with green,
From those behind the scenes, yeah they take the bribe (it's on the side)




A sign of the times, Sign of the times
A sign of the times, Sign of the times

Overall Meaning

The song “Sign of the Times” by Queensrÿche provides commentary on the state of society during the time it was written (1988) and still applies today. The song begins by describing the invasive security measures students must face when entering their school, reflecting the increase of surveillance and loss of privacy in modern society. The second verse describes the burning of a church and the inability to apprehend the culprits, highlighting the presence of hate and intolerance that still plagues society. The chorus repeats the phrase “a sign of the times” to emphasize the prevalence of these issues and the urgency to address them.


The bridge of the song switches the focus to those in power, asking if they have lost control or if there is a way to bring more kindness back into society. The final verse brings up the corruption and greed in politics, with senators accepting bribes and making decisions based on money instead of morals. The song overall paints a bleak picture of the current state of society, but calls for change and a better future.


Overall, “Sign of the Times” is a socially conscious song that criticizes various issues in society, but also calls for hope and change. It encourages listeners to see beyond the surface of the world around them and to strive towards a better future for all.


Line by Line Meaning

Heading for the classroom yesterday
Going to school as usual


The kids file through the metal machine
Children pass through metal detectors


It finds what they may hide
The machine detects any hidden weapons


No it just ain't right
The presence of metal detectors in schools is not normal


A sign of the times
It is an indication that our society has changed


Another church is burning to the ground
A church is on fire again


Looking for the vandals and they're nowhere to be found
The culprits are missing


But the hate's alive
The act was fueled by hate


A sign of the times, Sign of the times
It is a reflection of our current era


Would someone please let me know how we have spun out of control?
Can anyone explain how our society has become chaotic?


Has the captain let go of the wheel?
Did our leaders abandon their responsibilities?


Or could we please try to find a way to be a bit more kind?
Can we make an effort to be more compassionate towards each other?


I see the road to tomorrow in the haze!
Our future is uncertain and unclear


On the Senate floor they congregate
Senators gather to make decisions


Many pockets lined with green,
Some senators have been bribed


From those behind the scenes, yeah they take the bribe (it's on the side)
Influence peddlers offer bribes to senators


A sign of the times, Sign of the times
It is a reflection of our current era


A sign of the times, Sign of the times
It is an indication that our society has changed




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Christopher Degarmo

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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