Anthem '84
The Highwaymen Lyrics
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If you're lookin' for a fighter who'll defend you,
And love you for your freedom, I'm your man.
I ain't gonna leave you for the crazy things you're doin'
But don't ask me to lend a helpin' hand.
You were such a pretty dream as I remember.
You were young and strong and God was on your side.
You traded your compassion for your pride.
''(All)''
But I still believe in all that we believed in.
And I pray to God that you will in the end.
And you'll see the golden chances that you're wastin',
And be the lovin' beauty that you can.
(Instrumental break)
But I still believe in all that we believed in.
And I pray to God that you will in the end.
And you'll see the golden chances that you're wastin',
And be the lovin' beauty that you can.
Be the lovin' beauty that you can.
The lyrics of The Highwaymen's 'Anthem '84' speak to the idealism and hope of youth, and the disappointment and disillusionment that can come with age. The song features Johnny Cash singing about being a fighter who will defend and love someone for their freedom, but acknowledging that he cannot help them in their self-destructive behavior. He reminisces about the person's youth and strength, when they had faith and compassion, but eventually they lost their way and traded their compassion for pride. However, the chorus sung by all members of The Highwaymen expresses hope that people can still believe in the values they held in their youth and see the opportunities they are wasting, and ultimately become the loving and beautiful person they are capable of being.
Line by Line Meaning
If you're lookin' for a fighter who'll defend you,
I am the one you can rely on to protect you.
And love you for your freedom, I'm your man.
I respect and value your independence.
I ain't gonna leave you for the crazy things you're doin'
I won't abandon you when you make mistakes.
But don't ask me to lend a helpin' hand.
I won't enable or support your destructive behavior.
You were such a pretty dream as I remember.
You were once a beautiful hope and aspiration.
You were young and strong and God was on your side.
You had youth, strength, and divine support on your side.
But the vision slowly faded like the wonder from your eyes,
Your dream gradually disappeared, just like your sense of wonder.
You traded your compassion for your pride.
You gave up your empathy in exchange for your ego.
But I still believe in all that we believed in.
I still hold true to our shared values and beliefs.
And I pray to God that you will in the end.
I hope that you too will ultimately see the light.
And you'll see the golden chances that you're wastin',
You'll recognize the missed opportunities you've had.
And be the lovin' beauty that you can.
And embrace the amazing person you are capable of being.
But I still believe in all that we believed in.
I still hold true to our shared values and beliefs.
And I pray to God that you will in the end.
I hope that you too will ultimately see the light.
And you'll see the golden chances that you're wastin',
You'll recognize the missed opportunities you've had.
And be the lovin' beauty that you can.
And embrace the amazing person you are capable of being.
Be the lovin' beauty that you can.
Just be the wonderful, loving person that you are meant to be.
Contributed by Christopher C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.