Scary’s on the wall
Scary’s on his way
Watch where you spit
I’d advise you wait until it’s over
Then you got hit
And you shoulda known better
And we die young
Faster we run
Down, down, down you’re rollin’
Watch the blood float in the muddy sewer
Take another hit
And bury your brother
And we die young
Faster we run
Scary’s on the wall
Scary’s on his way
Another alley trip
Bullet seek the place to bend you over
Then you got hit
And you shoulda known better
Faster we run
And we die young
Decoding the Dark Undertones
“We Die Young” by Alice In Chains is a powerful anthem that delves into the harsh realities faced by youth in gritty urban environments. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of danger lurking at every corner—”Scary’s on the wall, Scary’s on his way”—conveying an ever-present sense of threat. The recurring lines, “And we die young, faster we run,” emphasize the fleeting nature of life and the urgency to escape, yet also a fatalistic acceptance of their circumstances. The references to violence, drugs, and loss serve as a haunting commentary on lives cut short, urging listeners to reflect on the consequences of choices made under pressure. The song’s raw honesty and heavy sound capture the despair and rebellion of a generation facing a world that seems stacked against them.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Jerry Cantrell
Release Year: 1990
Label: Columbia Records