When The Children Cry

White Lion's 'When The Children Cry' is a poignant ballad that addresses the themes of war, peace, and the hope for a better future. The song, released in the late 1980s, reflects the era's political tensions and the desire for global harmony. The lyrics speak directly to the innocence of children, symbolizing purity and the potential for change in a world marred by violence and political strife.

The song's verses paint a picture of a world where the consequences of adult actions have left a legacy of fear and destruction for the younger generation. The repeated line 'What have we become, just look what we have done' serves as a powerful reflection on humanity's misdeeds. The band urges the listener to consider the impact of these actions on children and to take responsibility for rebuilding a world where they can live without fear. The chorus, 'When the children cry, let them know we tried,' expresses a desire to reassure the children that efforts were made to create a better world, even if those efforts have not yet been successful.

The song ultimately conveys a message of hope, with the children themselves being the bearers of a new beginning. The line 'When the children sing, the new world begins' suggests that the purity and unjaded perspective of the young can lead humanity towards unity and peace. The call for 'no more presidents and all the wars will end' is a plea for a world governed by common humanity rather than political divisions. White Lion's song remains relevant as it encapsulates the universal longing for a world where the next generation can thrive in peace.