Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “Never Is a Long Time” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Never Is a Long Time” is a reflection on the fleetingness of life, and how our decisions ultimately shape our path forward and backward in time. The song’s protagonist recognizes the fleetingness of time, emphasizing that “we’re here for a moment, then gone like the stars”. Despite this seemingly oppressive notion of time, the protagonist still continues to make decisions with an optimistic attitude of “burning bright, even when never is a long time”. The idea of never being a long time implies that a particular future is uncertain and ever-changing, but that our decisions and actions in the present can create a positive future full of hope, despite the uncertainty of how it may turn out. Despite the feelings of tragedy and loss inherent to existence, this song serves as an anthemic reminder that the power to make positive changes lies in each of us, and that we must seize the opportunity and “burn bright” whenever we can.