Young Pilgrims
Young Pilgrims

The Shins - Young Pilgrims Lyrics

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Young Pilgrims Music Video

Young Pilgrims Lyrics

A cold and wet November dawn
And there are no barking sparrows
Just emptiness to dwell upon

I fell into a winter slide
And ended up the kind of kid who goes down chutes too narrow
Just eking out my measly pies

But I learned fast how to keep my head up 'cause I
Know there is this side of me that
Wants to grab the yoke from the pilot and just
Fly the whole mess into the sea

Another slow train to the coast
Some brand new gory art from way on high
I sink and then I swim all night

I watch the ice melt on the glass
While the eloquent young pilgrims pass
And leave behind their trail
Imploring us all not to fail

Of course I was raised to gather courage from those
Lofty tales so tried and true and
If you're able I'd suggest it 'cause this
Modern thought can get the best of you

This rather simple epitaph can save your hide, your falling mind
Fate isn't what we're up against, there's no design, no flaws to find
There's no design, no flaws to find

But I learned fast how to keep my head up 'cause I
Know I got this side of me that
Wants to grab the yoke from the pilot and just
Fly the whole mess into the sea

Writer(s): James Russell Mercer
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What album features the song 'Young Pilgrims' by The Shins?

    'Young Pilgrims' is featured on The Shins' second studio album titled 'Chutes Too Narrow.' This album was released on October 21, 2003, and was produced by Phil Ek along with the band themselves.

  2. Where was 'Chutes Too Narrow' recorded?

    'Chutes Too Narrow' was recorded in the basement of James Mercer's former home in Portland, Oregon. Despite being a less than ideal recording environment, it offered financial savings compared to professional studios.

  3. What inspired the title 'Chutes Too Narrow'?

    The title 'Chutes Too Narrow' comes from a lyric in the song 'Young Pilgrims.' This phrase reflects themes of navigating through difficult or restrictive paths in life, which aligns with some of the overarching themes explored throughout the album.

  4. How did critics respond to Chutes Too Narrow?

    'Chutes Too Narrow' received critical acclaim upon its release. It garnered an overall score of 88/100 on Metacritic and was praised for its old-school pop songwriting and expressive depth. Publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork lauded the album for its lyrical sophistication and melodic craftsmanship.

  5. Did any incidents occur during the recording of 'Chutes Too Narrow'?

    Yes, during the recording process of 'Chutes Too Narrow,' The Shins faced a significant setback when their computer containing master files was stolen. This incident occurred towards the end of their recording sessions in James Mercer's basement studio.

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