[Verse 1]
In the land where dragons rise so high
Population's aging, birth rates die
Economy grows but time's running thin
Can they build wealth before grey hair begins?
Manufacturing might, but workers grow few
The demographic clock is ticking through
[Chorus]
Old before rich, rich before old
Three questions that the future holds
Taiwan's waters, demographic weight
China's crossroads at the gate
Old before rich, which way will it go?
These are the questions we need to know
[Verse 2]
Across the strait where tensions mount
What would conflict really amount?
Not just missiles flying through the air
Supply chains broken everywhere
Global shipping lanes would freeze
Economic shockwaves across the seas
[Chorus]
Old before rich, rich before old
Three questions that the future holds
Taiwan's waters, demographic weight
China's crossroads at the gate
Old before rich, which way will it go?
These are the questions we need to know
[Bridge]
One child policy's legacy stays
Fewer workers, longer days
Can't reverse what's set in stone
Population's path is known
Innovation might break through
But demographics tell what's true
[Verse 3]
Why can't they escape the trap they're in?
Cultural roots run deep within
Caring for parents, saving face
Young people choosing slower pace
Urban costs and pressure high
Makes the birth rate say goodbye
[Chorus]
Old before rich, rich before old
Three questions that the future holds
Taiwan's waters, demographic weight
China's crossroads at the gate
Old before rich, which way will it go?
These are the questions we need to know
[Outro]
Geopolitics in the modern age
Demographics write the page
Taiwan's future, China's might
These questions shape our sight