I once was open
And one with a travelling heart
I loved with disregard

Just like the fiction
Rushing in your riverbed
Arise like applause in my head

And in the half-light
Where we both stand
This is the half-light
See me as I am

Just like the ocean
Always in love with the moon
It's overflowing now
Inside you

We fly right over
The minds of so many in pain
We are the smile of light that brings them rain

In the half light
Where we both stand
In the half light
You saw me as I am

I am a railroad track abandoned
With the sunset
Forgetting
I ever happened
That I ever happened

Overall Meaning

The song Opened Once by Jeff Buckley is a dreamy and poetic piece that encapsulates a feeling of longing and introspection. The lyrics of the song speak of someone who was once open, but now seems to be forgotten and abandoned, much like a railroad track forgotten by the sunset. The opening line of the song, “I once was open,” hints at a past when the singer was more carefree and open to experiences. However, as time passed, the singer seems to have become more introverted and reserved, no longer loving with disregard.

Moving forward, the lyrics compare the singer's feelings to those of a riverbed, rushing in fiction. The singer then reminisces about another person who is always in love with the moon, overflowing with emotions. Together, they fly over the minds of many in pain, bringing a smile of light that brings them happiness. Throughout the song, the half-light is mentioned, emphasizing the idea of ambiguity and uncertainty. In the end, the song speaks of forgetting and not being remembered, almost as if the singer has been left behind.

The song's lyrics are open to interpretation, but it's clear that they convey a sense of melancholy and loss. Perhaps, the singer misses being open and carefree, and longs for a time when they didn't have to worry about anything. The song is beautifully crafted, with vivid imagery and metaphors, making it a haunting and introspective experience.

Line by Line Meaning

I once was open
I used to be open-minded and willing to experience new sensations.

And one with a travelling heart
I was always on the move, searching for new adventures and experiences.

I loved with disregard
I love recklessly, not taking into account the consequences.

Just like the fiction
My life seems too perfect to be true, like a story.

Rushing in your riverbed
I dive headfirst into your desires and needs.

Arise like applause in my head
Your love fills me with joy and satisfaction.

And in the half-light
In the shadows.

Where we both stand
Together, but not fully present.

This is the half-light
We are in a state of partial darkness and confusion.

See me as I am
Recognize and accept me for who I really am.

Just like the ocean
My love is vast and uncontainable like the sea.