Great White Hope
Written by James Young
Lead Vocals by James Young
When I was a young man, I had to kick and scratch and claw
Now it's like top gun in the Old West, everybody wants me to draw
If I had known it would be like this I might have given it a second thought
But if someone had told me to give it up, it's a line that I wouldn't have bought
Look at me
I'm the great white hope
Can't you see
I'm up against the ropes
Don't you know
It's so hard to cope
When you feel
Like the great white hope
Now you've paid your money you're sitting in your ringside seat
And I know that some of you out there, might wanna see the champ get beat
If I had known it would be like this I might have given it a second thought
But real life sure isn't like school, there's some lessons that just can't be taught
Look at me
I'm the great white hope
Can't you see
I'm up against the ropes
Don't you know
It's so hard to cope
When you feel
Like the great white hope
Interpretation
The life of the #1 contender in boxing is used as an analogy for what it's like to be in the spotlight with everyone trying to shoot you down, making you question whether fame and fortune is really worth all the trouble that comes with it.
Notice: This is an unofficial web site. Many lyrics have been transcribed by ear and may contain inaccuracies. All lyrics are the sole property of the indicated authors and are included here simply to enhance the enjoyment of the music for both old and new fans and as a forum for discussion of the meaning of the songs. Any attempts to use these lyrics for any non-educational purpose is both unethical and illegal. If you like a song, buy the album. If you want to record or perform a song, contact the author of the song for permission and to arrange appropriate royalties.