Very Best Years
The Grays Lyrics
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It started a long time ago
When I was a little boy
Sometimes
A little one don't do what he's told
And mother puts back his toy
Yes there is something you can do my love
And serve to remind
That everything is gonna be alright
Despite my fighting bitter tears
These are the very best years
These days
Father's not the man that we knew
And you know we get so low
That's when
You find me alone with my will
And my wine, and these scars that show
Yes there is something you can do my love
Won't you help me through these troubled times
And serve to remind
That everything is gonna be alright
Despite my fighting bitter tears
These are the very best years
I was just five years old
Had this dream that took me far away
And brought me here today
Where my hopes and fears
Are gathered around
Can't you feel them hanging 'round
Yes there is something you can do my love
Won't you help me through these troubled times
And serve to remind
That everything is gonna be alright
Despite my fighting bitter tears
And serve to remind
Yes everything is gonna be alright
Despite my fighting bitter tears
'cause these are the very best years, yeah
These are the very best years
The lyrics to The Grays' song "Very Best Years" tell a story of personal struggle and triumph in the face of difficult circumstances. The song describes a long journey, beginning with childhood disobedience and the inevitable parental reprimand. As the song progresses, we see the singer facing a series of challenges in adulthood, including strained family relationships, feelings of isolation, and alcohol use. Despite these obstacles, the singer expresses a sense of hope and optimism, acknowledging that every hardship has led them to this particular moment in time.
Throughout the song, the singer repeatedly emphasizes the idea that "everything is gonna be alright", imploring their love interest to serve as a source of comfort and support in difficult times. This sentiment is particularly poignant in the final verse, where the singer reflects on a childhood dream that became a reality, and how their hopes and fears have shaped their current situation. Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a reason to keep moving forward.
In many ways, "Very Best Years" is a deeply personal song that could represent the struggles and triumphs of any individual. The lyrics are open to interpretation and could resonate differently with each listener. However, the overall message of perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity is powerful and uplifting, making it a timeless piece of music that has the potential to inspire listeners for years to come.
Line by Line Meaning
Okay
Starting the song with a sense of affirmation and ease.
It started a long time ago
Reminding the listener that the story being told spans a significant period of time.
When I was a little boy
Echoing back to a time of youthful innocence and simplicity.
Sometimes
Acknowledging that life is not always easy or straightforward.
A little one don't do what he's told
Highlighting the child-like tendency to rebel or resist authority figures.
And mother puts back his toy
Illustrating how punishment or discipline can sometimes feel like a loss or betrayal.
Yes there is something you can do my love
Turning to a significant other or partner for support and guidance.
Won't you help me through these troubled times
Asking for assistance during a difficult or tumultuous period.
And serve to remind
Emphasizing the importance of remembering what really matters.
That everything is gonna be alright
Expressing a sense of hopeful optimism for the future.
Despite my fighting bitter tears
Acknowledging that the journey might be difficult or emotional.
These are the very best years
Affirming that even amidst challenges, these are still important and valuable times.
Father's not the man that we knew
Addressing changes or struggles that can occur within family relationships.
And you know we get so low
Acknowledging when emotions or circumstances can feel overwhelming or daunting.
That's when
Highlighting that difficult moments can lead to valuable insights or personal growth.
You find me alone with my will
Describing a sense of inner fortitude and determination, even when facing challenges alone.
And my wine, and these scars that show
Suggesting ways that someone might cope with pain or challenge, even when that pain is visible or tangible.
I was just five years old
Reverting back to a time of innocence and simplicity, yet highlighting how those experiences can shape us for life.
Had this dream that took me far away
Explaining how a sense of aspiration or hope can propel someone to new heights or possibilities.
And brought me here today
Acknowledging how past experiences can shape and inform our present reality.
Where my hopes and fears
Recognizing the complex and interrelated nature of hope and fear within human experience.
Are gathered around
Describing how the fullness of life can encompass a range of emotions and experiences.
Can't you feel them hanging 'round
Inviting the listener to join in the emotional journey being described.
'cause these are the very best years, yeah
Reaffirming the central idea that even amidst difficulty, these years are still deeply valuable and meaningful.
Contributed by Scarlett J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@addypoole1980
Jason Falkner is one of the most underrated artists of the 90s and 2000s, he owns the power pop scene and no one even knows!
@segundo4018
It`s so true!! I am a fan from Brazil
@shannonwilson447
Luckily we know. I was fortunate to be familiar with Jellyfish, then introduced to Jason’s solo work. Got to see him play with Beck here in Louisville. I was in bucket list heaven.
@martindumont5553
Genius, the Mozart of sophisticated Power Pop. You can always tell a Jason song even when it’s a collaboration.
@DarinBackPhotography
I got the great job to work with them on this video. what a great bunch of dudes. Every one was cool as hell. I miss seeing them play. We has such a good time making this video..dback
@124kwp
What was your role in the video?
@DarinBackPhotography
@124kwp still photographer
@mailman87120
That is awesome.
@jeffcarlson3004
Props to you!
@alanreber1027
Summer of 94, the very blessed years!😏 all was well - considering....🤔