Why Walk When You Can Run

Album: 22 Dreams (2008)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Paul Weller explained to Mojo magazine June 2008 that this was inspired by the youngest of his five kids, Mac: "I was on a beach in Spain, he was rushing towards the sea, with no sense of fear, with me calling to him and he couldn't hear me. All he could see was the sea in front of him and he was just going for it. It just seemed like a brilliant metaphor for living your life."

Comments: 1

  • Ian from Cardiff, United KingdomThis song has genuine depth.As a father I recall the child in me as well as my own son's joy and therefore 'sheets of time' are woven together. Five years ago I lost my 32-year-old brother-in-law (he died in a car crash). He was a sprinter and personal trainer and so there is another more poinant layer to this song to me. tears of joy and tears of sadness-now that is a SONG!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Zakk Wylde

Zakk WyldeSongwriter Interviews

When he was playing Ozzfest with Black Label Society, a kid told Zakk he was the best Ozzy guitarist - Zakk had to correct him.

Greg Lake of Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Greg Lake of Emerson, Lake & PalmerSongwriter Interviews

Greg talks about writing songs of "universal truth" for King Crimson and ELP, and tells us about his most memorable stage moment (it involves fireworks).

Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy and Black Star Riders

Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy and Black Star RidersSongwriter Interviews

Writing with Phil Lynott, Scott saw their ill-fated frontman move to a darker place in his life and lyrics.

A Monster Ate My Red Two: Sesame Street's Greatest Song Spoofs

A Monster Ate My Red Two: Sesame Street's Greatest Song SpoofsSong Writing

When singers started spoofing their own songs on Sesame Street, the results were both educational and hilarious - here are the best of them.

Christmas Songs

Christmas SongsFact or Fiction

Rudolf, Bob Dylan and the Singing Dogs all show up in this Fact or Fiction for seasonal favorites.

Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers

Bill Medley of The Righteous BrothersSongwriter Interviews

Medley looks back on "Unchained Melody" and "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" - his huge hits from the '60s that were later revived in movies.