"Speed Kills" is a song by Gil Scott-Heron, an influential American musician, poet, and activist. The song addresses the fast pace and pressures of modern life, highlighting the lack of time and concern for important aspects of life. In the lyrics, the singer questions the priorities and consequences of a fast-paced lifestyle. They wonder about the value of this life when everything seems to pass by quickly. They also question if they can find a place or be a part of such a hectic world. The line "Issues in the paper (somehow I'm not concerned)" suggests a detachment from mainstream news and the feeling of having experienced similar problems in the past without learning from them. The phrase "Children slowly turn" implies that the younger generation is gradually changing or developing in a way that may not align with the singer's values or ideals. The song then reflects on the passage of time and the realization that it slips away unnoticed. The singer wonders what they have to show for it and what is truly important in life. The lyrics touch upon the loss of relationships, as friends who were once important now seem distant and unrecognizable. The line "Down the tunnels of your youth, now you never smile" suggests that the pressures and demands of life may have robbed individuals of their joy and happiness. The song concludes with a plea for understanding and help in explaining life's meaning. The singer acknowledges the need for guidance and connection in navigating the challenges of a fast-paced world. Overall, "Speed Kills" explores concepts of time, societal pressures, loss, and the search for meaning in a hectic and often disconnected modern world. It encourages reflection on the consequences of an accelerated lifestyle and the importance of finding true happiness and fulfillment.
