Keys

[Verse 1]
Does the bustle of big cities hold the keys to making men?
Or are they made by tools and toil an honest day demands
I was told once only battle could save me from my own worthlessness
My generation needed it some death
"You ain't a man," he said, "until you've dealt some death"

[Verse 2]
But I've seen daylight shine near twice as bright in the eyes of younger men
And that brightness turn to blackest coal when fixed to bitter ends
Only mothers see the darkening of heart and temperament
In silence do they grieve as child turns walking dead
And you tell me that a man just ain't a man until he's dealt some death

[Verse 3]
This is how my faith came to be shattered in these troubled times
While others drew theirs closer sure of favor in God's eyes
On a sick wind I've watched prayers ascend bereft of holy light
Finding homes among the hopeless, filling hollow insides
Singin, "Hallelujah brothers, God is on our side!"

[Verse 4]
So if your spirit is unwilling and your flesh feels old and weak
But you speak such words of righteousness your voice doth shake the trees
Well think about it, brother, who would teach you these things?
Would a God of love have you on your knees?
Now, tell me what side are you on, and in what do you believe?

[Verse 1]
So does the bustle of big cities hold the keys to making men?
Or are they made by tools and toil an honest day demands
I was told once only battle could save me from my own worthlessness
My generation needed it some death
"You ain't a man," he said
"You ain't a man," he said
"No, you ain't a man," he said, "until you've dealt some death"