[Verse 1] What did your father say to you When he reached right through you? Did he say the things that he had learned From his father, too? So when do you become your own, you Become your own you? Or are you just a shadow of something more? [Chorus 1] We are chinese boxes Equal parts present and past Where do I begin and end up? Saw those old eyes staring right back at me [Verse 2] So tell me what you need I'll be watching out for you There are no enemies Only dangerous friends You grew up very fast I didn't think I'd miss a thing Cause nothing ever lasts [Chorus 2] A wise old man A wise young fool A wise young man A wise old fool [Refrain] Try to understand (a wise old man, a wise young fool) (notice me, comfort me, understand me) Just try to understand (a wise old man, a wise young fool) (notice me, comfort me, understand me) [Verse 3] What'd your father say to you To turn you cold? Father never quite grew up He just grew old And if I was to say to you You know I love him still Would you think less of me For hating me? [Chorus 1] We are chinese boxes Equal parts present and past We are so unconscious Saw those old eyes staring right back at me [Verse 4] So try to understand I'm just like you, and you me Exactly who I am Might escape you always The fortunes of a man Are the debts of the son, always [Chorus 2/Outro] A wise old man A wise young fool A wise young man A wise old fool