When
Rostam Lyrics


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When you know something
How do you know that you know it?
How do you know that you know it?

When you know something
How do you know that you know it?
How do you know that you know it?
They gon' tell you what to feel
They want tell you you gon' fail
And you chip a tooth, but it was on the truth
And we don't wait for someone to tell us
I'm here to tell don't you, don't you
I'm here to tell you don't listen them
Listen to yourself, but don't fall asleep in the restaurant
Anyway the west one
Any way the west one
Them the crazy ones we know better, come on
None of us so crazy as to try to explain it to 'em
They don't wanna hear it
And we just wanna keep living in America
But come on
We just wanna change the distribution of wealth
The weapons industrial complex, and the use of
Force by sundown
Like I said we the crazy ones

I'm here to tell you don't believe any of it
I'm here to tell you don't listen them
But don't fall asleep in the restaurant
Anyway the west one
Any way the west one
Them the crazy ones we know better, come on
None of us so crazy as to try to explain it to 'em
They don't wanna hear it
And we just wanna keep living in America
But come on
We just wanna change the distribution of wealth
The weapons industrial complex, and the use of
Force by sundown
Like I said we the crazy ones
No
Them the crazy ones, you know better, come on

They gon' tell you what to feel
They want tell you you gon' fail
And you chip a tooth, but it was on the truth
And we don't wait for someone to tell us
I'm here to tell you don't believe any of it
I'm here to tell you don't listen them
Listen to yourself, but don't fall asleep in the restaurant
Anyway the west one
Any way the west one
Them the crazy ones, we know better, come on
None of us so crazy as to try to explain it to 'em
They don't wanna hear it
And we just wanna keep living in America
But come on
We just wanna change the distribution of wealth
The weapons industrial complex, and the use of
Force by sundown
Like I said we the crazy ones




No
Them the crazy ones, we know better, come on

Overall Meaning

The song "When" by Rostam explores the concept of knowledge and the influence of others on our beliefs and actions. The repeated question, "How do you know that you know it?" reflects a search for certainty and understanding in a world where information and opinions are constantly being shared.


The lyrics suggest that external forces often try to manipulate our feelings and make us doubt ourselves. The line "They gon' tell you what to feel" implies that society or authoritative figures can dictate our emotions. Similarly, "They want tell you you gon' fail" suggests that others may try to undermine our confidence and discourage us from pursuing our goals.


Despite these influences, the song encourages listeners to trust their own instincts and not rely solely on the opinions of others. The line "Listen to yourself, but don't fall asleep in the restaurant" urges individuals to maintain self-awareness and not become complacent or passive in their own lives.


The mention of "the west one" several times in the lyrics could refer to a specific location, possibly symbolizing societal norms or expectations. The emphasis on being "crazy ones" could imply a desire for change and challenging the status quo. The song suggests a collective desire to alter the distribution of wealth and challenge the dominance of the weapons industrial complex, advocating for a more equitable society.


Despite acknowledging the resistance and reluctance of some to accept these ideas, the song emphasizes the importance of persistence. The repetition of "we know better" implies a shared understanding among those seeking change. The song promotes the idea that even though others may not want to hear our perspectives, it is crucial to continue striving for a better future.


In summary, "When" is a song that explores the complexities of knowledge, the influence of external forces, and the importance of trusting oneself. It encourages listeners to challenge societal norms, work towards change, and believe in their own convictions, even when faced with opposition.


Line by Line Meaning

When you know something
In instances when you possess knowledge


How do you know that you know it?
What method do you employ to ascertain the validity of your knowledge?


They gon' tell you what to feel
They will attempt to dictate your emotions


They want tell you you gon' fail
They desire to convince you that you will encounter failure


And you chip a tooth, but it was on the truth
Even if you suffer minor setbacks, they result from adhering to the truth


And we don't wait for someone to tell us
We refuse to rely on others for guidance


I'm here to tell don't you, don't you
I am present to emphasize this point


I'm here to tell you don't listen them
I am here to advise you to disregard their voices


Listen to yourself, but don't fall asleep in the restaurant
Pay attention to your own intuition, but remain alert and aware of your surroundings


Anyway the west one
Regardless of the direction in which the western influence moves


Them the crazy ones we know better, come on
Those individuals are the ones deemed irrational, while we possess superior understanding


None of us so crazy as to try to explain it to 'em
None of us are foolish enough to attempt to rationalize our perspective to them


They don't wanna hear it
They have no desire to listen


And we just wanna keep living in America
We simply wish to continue our existence in the United States


But come on
However, it is essential to take action


We just wanna change the distribution of wealth
We seek to alter the unequal allocation of resources


The weapons industrial complex, and the use of
Additionally, we aim to address the issues concerning the weapons industry and its utilization


Force by sundown
The employment of coercive measures ceases at sunset


Like I said we the crazy ones
As previously mentioned, we are considered the eccentric individuals


No
Absolutely not


Them the crazy ones, you know better, come on
They are the ones deemed irrational, and you possess superior understanding, so act accordingly




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Rostam Batmanglij

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Daniel Walton

Favourite track 🙌

JMN 123

Rostam so good!

thewhatness

This is the track that's the most challenging on a first listen, in that kind of Kid A way.

Gary Waldrep

Maybe it's the weird ass demon voice. 🤷‍♂️

HalfBloodOtter

what's so challenging about this - the instrumental is very basic indian style stuff rolls eyes

Tess Morris!!

Danielle Haim brought me here 😂✌🏼

Mildred Godoy

Tess Morris!! Me to 🙄

T@

The instrumental and vocals at the beginning are gorgeous but the distorted vocals kinda ruined it for me. Hope in future we'll get more rostam songs with tablas and eastern oriental music instrumentals.

Ashutosh kumar

Go listen to Wood by Rostam

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