Frank Sinatra died today
I came home and found my mama crying
The TV had so much to say
Somehow I was thinking about dying
I’m seventeen and thinking about dying
I don’t want to live forever
Just want to know that I’m alive
Don’t want to live forever
Just until the day I die
I see my daddy in his chair
He sits there night and day
The TV still looks good as new
Daddy’s old and gray
And it’s scaring me to death
I don’t want to go that way
I don’t want to live forever
Just want to know that I’m alive
Don’t want to live forever
Just until the day I die
Just because your heart’s still beating
It don’t mean that you’re alive
Don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
Gonna live while I’m alive
You can see the glass half-empty
You can see the glass half-full
But all I see are shattered dreams
Around this neighborhood
My brother’s girlfriend’s pregnant
And today she’s moving in
My friends all play the lottery
And swear one day they’ll win
I’m seventeen, I’m thinking about dying
I’m seventeen, no way I’m dying
Don’t want to live forever
Just want to know that I’m alive
Don’t want to live forever
Just until the day I die
Just because you’re breathing
It don’t mean that you’re alive
Don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
I don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
Don’t want to live forever
I don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
I don’t want to live forever
Don’t want to live forever
I don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
I don’t want to live forever
Nobody lives forever
I don’t want to live forever
Existential Reflections in Youth
“I Don’t Want To Live Forever” by Bon Jovi delves into the fears and uncertainties of adolescence, capturing the raw emotions felt when confronted with mortality. The narrative unfolds as the protagonist witnesses the passing of Frank Sinatra, triggering deep contemplation about life’s impermanence. The lyrics juxtapose the mundane scenes of family life with existential dread, as the songwriter expresses a strong desire not for endless existence, but for a meaningful one. The repeated refrain—wanting to feel truly alive—highlights a universal longing to find purpose rather than simply survive.
The Pursuit of Meaningful Living
Bon Jovi masterfully contrasts generational perspectives, from the father’s resigned routine to the dreams and struggles of peers. The song serves as a poignant reminder that longevity is not as significant as the quality and authenticity of one’s experiences. Ultimately, it encourages listeners to seize the present, seeking fulfillment and vitality in daily life.
Song Credits
Artist: Bon Jovi
Release Year: 2004