There’s a candle burnin’ in the world tonight
For ‘nother child who vanished out of sight
And a heart is broken, another prayer in vain
There’s a million tears that fill a sea of pain
Sometimes I stare out my window
My thoughts all drift into space
Sometimes I wonder if there’s a better place
(Tell me)
Where do fallen angels go?
I just don’t know
Where do fallen angels go?
They keep fallin’
Now the times is frightenin’
Can’t ignore the facts
There’s so many people
Just slippin’ through the cracks
So many ashes are scattered
So many rivers run dry
Sometimes your Heaven is Hell, and you don’t know why
(So listen)
Where do fallen angels go?
I just don’t know (I just don’t know)
Where do fallen angels go?
They keep fallin’, fallin’, fallin’
Yeah
Can you hear me?
Can you hear me?
Somewhere out there there’s a shinin’ light
And I got to be with you tonight
And with all we’re nowhere
We still pay the price
Yeah, the Devil seems to get his way
In downtown paradise, yeah
Where do fallen angels go?
I just don’t know (I just don’t know)
Where do fallen angels go?
They keep fallin’, fallin’, fallin’, yeah
Where do fallen angels go?
(Tell me)
I just don’t know (I just don’t know)
Where do fallen angels go?
They keep fallin’, fallin’, fallin’, yeah
There’s a candle burnin’
The Haunting Reality in “Fallen Angels”
“Fallen Angels” by Aerosmith is a poignant reflection on loss, vulnerability, and searching for hope amid darkness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where innocence vanishes and pain abounds, symbolized by the recurring image of a candle burning for lost souls. The song’s questioning refrain, “Where do fallen angels go?” captures a universal sense of uncertainty and longing for answers when confronted with tragedy. Aerosmith masterfully balances melancholy with moments of hope, suggesting that even in desperation, there’s a yearning for connection and light.
The Struggle Between Darkness and Light
The song delves into themes of societal neglect and spiritual struggle. Lines about people “slippin’ through the cracks” and “the Devil seems to get his way” highlight the ever-present tension between good and evil. The sense of searching—wondering if there’s “a better place”—reflects a deep empathy for those who feel lost, leaving listeners with a lingering question about fate and redemption.
Song Credits
Artist: Aerosmith
Songwriters: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Taylor Rhodes
Release Year: 1997
Label: Columbia Records