In 1993 Greg Graffin said it was his favorite song.
Brett’s take on recording The Answer: “Greg took a stab at a solo on this song and it sucked. So I did a solo. I was really insulted that he even wanted to try.”
[Verse 1]
Long ago in a dusty village full of hunger, pain, and strife
A man came forth with a vision of truth and the way to a better life
He was convinced he had the answer and he compelled people to follow along
But the hunger never vanished and the man was banished
And the village dried up and died
[Verse 2]
At a time when wise men peered
Through glass tubes toward the sky
The heavens changed in predictable ways
And one man was able to find
That he had thought he found the answer
And he was quick to write his revelation
But as they were scrutinized in his colleagues eyes
He soon became a mockery
[Chorus]
Don't tell me about the answer, 'cause then
Another one will come along soon
I don't believe you have the answer
I've got ideas, too
But if you've got enough naivety
And you've got conviction
Then the answer is perfect for you
[Guitar Solo]
[Verse 3]
An urban sprawl sits choking on its discharge
Overwhelmed by industry
Searching for a modern day savior from another place
Inclined toward charity
Everyone begging for an answer without
Regard to validity
The searching never ends, it goes on and on
And on for eternity
[Bridge]
Ah, ah, ah, ah-ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah-ah, ah
[Chorus]
Don't tell me about the answer, 'cause then
Another one will come along soon
I don't believe you have the answer
I've got ideas too
But if you've got enough naivety
And you've got conviction
Then the answer is perfect for you
(The answer is perfect for you)
The Answer was written by Greg Graffin.
The Answer was produced by Bobby Schayer & Brett Gurewitz & Greg Graffin & Greg Hetson & Jay Bentley.
Bad Religion released The Answer on Fri Mar 13 1992.