The clash between a fantasy reunion and reality when a member of the armed services returns home. In the summer of 2002 several veterans of the Afghan War murdered their wives shortly after their return to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The camp was traumatized and there was much speculation about what caused this epidemic. In addition to posttraumatic stress and possible reaction to anti-malarial drugs there was an interesting subtext. In the months of separation, military wives often became more independent and self-sufficient. On the other hand, the men had been living the paradox of a chaotic, brutal war and an extremely strict, hierarchical system. I imagined they returned home longing for peace, order and the perfect wife, while their wives needed support and understanding. I thought it was interesting to write the song from the man’s point of view.
lyrics
Lyrics:
The fragile eyes of a man with a gun who stands for nothing
And all he wants is a little peace and quiet, but she keeps talking
Now he ain’t sure if he heard right, but she sounds like leaving
He puts his hands on his ears and says, ‘I don’t believe this’
16 months, his last tour, and he walked through fire
When Captain said ‘Sergeant jump’, he’d just ask ‘how high, sir?’
Now he ain’t sure if he heard right, but she sounds like leaving
He puts his hands on her arms and says, ‘you must be dreaming’
Night of a thousand stars, miles from the ground
World spinning round and round
Days of slaughter and rage, he’d dream of Angel
And in her arms he would rise high above the turmoil
Now he ain’t sure if he heard right, but she looks like leaving
He puts his hand on his gun and says, not while I’m breathing
Night of a thousand stars, miles from the ground
World spinning round and round
Night of a thousand stars, miles from the ground
World spinning round and round
The fragile eyes of a man with a gun who stands for nothing
And all he wants is a little peace and quiet
credits
from Night of 1000 Stars,
track released May 8, 2009
Words and Music: Monica Pasqual
Monica lead vocal/piano/reverse piano/wurlitzer
Jeri electric guitar
Renée bass/harmony vocal
Pam drums/percussion/ harmony vocal
BZ Lewis electric guitar
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