The Horizon Has Been Defeated
Jack Johnson · On And On (2003)
by the pirates of the new age
alien casinos
well maybe it's just time to say
things can go bad
and make you want to run away
but as we grow older
the troubles just seems to stay
future complications
in the strings between the cans
but no prints can come from fingers
if machines become our hands
and then our feet become the wheels
and then the wheels become the cars
and then the rigs begin to drill
until the drilling goes too far
things can go bad
and make you want to run away
but as we grow older
the horizon begins to fade, fade, fade
fade away
thingamajigsaw puzzled
anger don't you step too close
because people are lonely and only
animals with fancy shoes
hallelujah zig zag nothing
misery it's on the loose
because people are lonely and only
animals with too many tools
that can build all the junk that we sell
sometimes it makes you want to yell
things can go bad
and make you want to run away
but as we grow older
the horizon begins to fade away
fade away
fade, fade, fade
fade, fade, fade
The Horizon Has Been Defeated
The Horizon Has Been Defeated stands as a reflective track within Jack Johnson's 2003 album On And On. Emerging during a period where Johnson solidified his signature blend of acoustic rock and reggae-inflected pop, the song captures his characteristic laid-back delivery and thoughtful lyricism. The recording showcases his ability to weave personal introspection with broader environmental themes, a hallmark of his early discography. As part of an album that helped cement his reputation for creating warm, accessible music, the track exemplifies the singer-songwriter's knack for turning simple chord progressions into resonant statements. Johnson's work during this era remains influential for its organic production and emphasis on lyrical clarity, inviting listeners to engage with the quiet urgency found in his songwriting without relying on complex arrangements.