Stage of Life

• tempo: 120-140 bps (2):2:2:4
• main chords: Cm, Ab, Eb, Bb (though what's in my head seems to be a step up from that, starting in Dm, sometimes)
• inspiration: Ace of Base (vocals for verses), "Save Tonight" by Eagle Eye Cherry (chorus vocal/feel)

Some of us look around and don't see why they should care Some of us try to breathe, but can't get any air It's time to re-examine All the things we've stood upon It's time to get a clearer view Of what's been going on. Look at what's all around you -- don't pretend that you don't see Listen to what I'm saying -- don't pretend you don't agree The rain is falling faster We're caught up in the flow We're underneath the water It might be time to go Chorus: Everyone's making my mind up Everyone's taking my time Everyone's given up everything Everyone's out of line I think the time is coming I think it may be ripe To pluck the fruit of anger And throw it at this stage of life

Some of us look at others, and think there's nothing there Some of us talk about it, when we have the breath to spare The rain is falling faster We're underwater now We're sinking in the sediment Convention, take a bow. (instrumental) The rain is falling faster We're underwater now How do you like the sea floor? Will you learn to breathe somehow? Chorus 2 Everyone's chewing bubblegum Everyone's taking names Everyone's just being realistic Everyone's playing games I think the time is coming I think it may be ripe To pluck the fruit of anger And throw it at the stage of life When the truth is hard to swallow, we eat sugar-coated lies. It's no wonder we need direction when the world is in disguise. So finish your balanced breakfast Someone's calling your name I can't believe we're all alone I don't think we're to blame (chorus)

Notes

Everyone's walking faster
Nobody stands their ground
Nobody's doing anything
Everyone stands around

Everyone's making overtures
Everyone's playing games
Everyone's working overtime
Everyone's underpaid

Everyone's got clean underwear
Everyone's soul is stained

Everything's so different
Everything stays the same
There's nothing else on my mind now
There's no one else to blame

Everything's wrapped in silence
Everything's wrapped in shame
Everything's done with violence
Everyone's to blame

This is the golden moment
to step out of the cage
to pluck the fruit of anger
and throw it at the stage of life.