Asylum recently caught up with Mike Daly, author of "Time Flies When You're in a Coma: The Wisdom of the Metal Gods," to gain his insight on why the lyrical content of '80s heavy metal can guide and inspire us all.

What do you tell someone who writes off metal lyrics as the mad rantings of fully-grown juveniles clad in spandex? Let's look at the facts: They've traveled the world; they've made millions; they've communicated their messages to millions of fans; they've slept with some of the most beautiful woman in the world ... Needless to say they're doing something right, and the first rule of success is to model after someone who's already successful. Besides who are you gonna trust: Oprah or thousands of satisfied women?

What are some critical moments in a man's life when it's most important to turn to metal lyrics for guidance? Any situation dealing with sex, drugs, alcohol and the underworld.

Can metal wisdom be of help during less crucial moments -- like when a guy is brushing his teeth or trying to find a parking space? Yes, if he is also having sex, high and/or drunk, and communicating with Satan directly at the time.

Check out selected lyrics found in "Time Flies" in the gallery below, and learn more about power-chord accompanied profundity after the jump.



What is the most life-changing metal lyric you have ever heard? "Talking to you is like clapping with one hand," from Anthrax's "Caught in a Mosh."

Who are the greatest of all time in terms of writers? Lemmy, Ronnie James Dio, James Hetfield, Jonathan Daniel from Electric Angels. These guys all have the ability to observe the human condition and share their insights with an audience in a way that is both entertaining and inspiring. If Wall Street should be listening to anything right now, it should be Metallica's "Trapped Under Ice." It's prophetic.

Can you make a distinction between the type of wisdom dispensed by hair metal and speed metal? Is there a philosophical rift between the wisdom of a Poison and a Slayer? There are distinctions in the world of Metal Philosophy, not rifts -- each simply has its own area of expertise. For example, if one were to need advice on what to do on a Saturday night or how to get a stripper into the sack, Poison, Faster Pussycat, and LA Guns are just the ticket. For dealing with Satan and the underworld, one would turn to Venom, King Diamond or Slayer. And for reflections on life, Ozzy, Dio and Electric Angels.

How do these songwriters compare to other pop culture self-help gurus like Tony Robbins or Dr. Phil? Well, Dr. Phil has a mustache so he's out, and though walking on burning coals is pretty metal, I'm pretty sure Lemmy could take both of them.

Is it advisable to take fashion advice from metal artists? The Metal Gods were trailblazers in the fashion world. I believe they would want people to model their independence, but not the literal fashion. However, the words should be taken literally.

What are the five most important lessons heavy metal lyrics teach us?
1) Every woman you meet wants to sleep with you.
2) It's always Friday night somewhere.
3) Louder is always better.
4) Violence has its uses.
5) Every rose does indeed have its thorn.