Bottom Line
The Whippersnappers Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Success is only failure if it doesn't meet the bottom line.
And then you try to tell me that I don't even try.
Ignorance and apathy you don't know you don't care,
You measure your own worth by the classist trappings that you wear.
And then you try to tell me that I don't even try.
Is the only thing you have you have nothing of your own,
Your own life's nothing but a sham.
Where are you now?
The Whippersnappers' song "Bottom Line" is a commentary on society's fixation with success and materialistic values. The song's opening lines describe the interaction between two people in line, with one trying to tell the other about life. However, the second person challenges the idea that success is the ultimate goal in life, stating that it only becomes a failure if it doesn't meet the bottom line. The lyrics go on to suggest that this idea is lost on many people, who measure their worth by the things they own and wear.
The chorus brings attention to the toxic and close-minded mentalities that can come from this type of thinking. It points out that those who are ignorant and apathetic have no true understanding of the world around them, and they try to push these negative qualities onto others by suggesting that they aren't trying hard enough. The bridge of the song singles out the hateful behavior that can arise from attempting to measure oneself in these shallow ways. The lyrics suggest that those with nothing to show for themselves often resort to lashing out and spreading hate as a means of justifying their own shortcomings.
Overall, "Bottom Line" is a song that urges people to find meaning and purpose beyond the superficial and materialistic standards set forth by society. These values can lead to destructive attitudes and behaviors that stand in the way of true growth and understanding.
Line by Line Meaning
You stand in line beside me try to tell me of this life.
You're standing beside me in this line, yet you feel the need to lecture me about life.
Success is only failure if it doesn't meet the bottom line.
Success is only considered failure if it falls short of the financial expectations.
And then you try to tell me that I don't even try.
On top of that, you accuse me of not even putting in any effort.
Ignorance and apathy you don't know you don't care,
Your ignorance and lack of interest blind you from seeing the reality.
You measure your own worth by the classist trappings that you wear.
Your self-worth is solely based on the luxury items you possess, which represents your social status.
And then you try to tell me that I don't even try.
Furthermore, you have the audacity to accuse me of not trying hard enough.
You try to justify your hate your hate,
You attempt to rationalize your hate, but it's unjustifiable.
Is the only thing you have you have nothing of your own,
Your hate is the only thing that defines you since you have no individuality.
Your own life's nothing but a sham.
Your life is nothing but a facade, an illusion that you portray to the world.
Where are you now?
What has become of you in the end?
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: ANDREW MARCUS FRAMPTON, CHRIS BRAIDE, VICTORIA CAROLINE BECKHAM
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind