Stranger
Amos Lyrics


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I walk in the streets
I see faces and hear voices
Confused eyes
People get rich
People ask for food
Drinks and drugs
Addictions, images and crosses
Religions
Hunger... Fear... Injustice
In a stranger land
I'm walking




In a stranger land
Just for a while

Overall Meaning

The song Stranger by Amos is a poignant portrayal of what it feels like to be a stranger in a new and unfamiliar land. The lyrics are reflective and introspective, with the singer observing the people and the surroundings around him. The first verse talks about how the singer sees faces and hears voices but feels confused by what he sees. The second verse talks about the different kinds of people the singer encounters- from those who are rich to those who are asking for basic necessities like food and drink. The singer also observes the presence of addictions, images, and crosses, hinting at the various symbols and belief systems that exist in the place he currently inhabits.


The third and final verse delves deeper into the emotions the singer is experiencing. He talks about hunger, fear, and injustice, all of which speak to a sense of unease and vulnerability. The phrase "In a stranger land" is repeated twice, emphasizing the isolation and dislocation the singer is feeling. However, despite all these challenges, the singer is determined to soldier on. The last two lines, "I'm walking / in a stranger land / just for a while" suggest that this is a temporary state of affairs and that the singer is hopeful that things will eventually change for the better.


Line by Line Meaning

I walk in the streets
I wander through unfamiliar cities and neighborhoods.


I see faces and hear voices
I am surrounded by people, each with their own thoughts and stories.


Confused eyes
Many people seem lost or unsure of their place in the world.


People get rich
Some individuals experience financial success and abundance.


People ask for food
Others struggle to meet their basic needs, and must beg for sustenance.


Drinks and drugs
Substances are used to dull the pain or escape the hardships of life.


Addictions, images and crosses
People turn to various crutches for comfort, including substance abuse, obsessive behavior, and religious faith.


Religions
Different systems of faith exist, each offering a unique worldview and set of spiritual practices.


Hunger... Fear... Injustice
Many people face profound suffering, including hunger, fear, and oppression.


In a stranger land
This is a place where I am unfamiliar and feel like an outsider.


I'm walking
I am moving through the world, experiencing all of its joys and sorrows.


In a stranger land
Although I am not from here, I am still part of this global community, with its shared struggles and triumphs.


Just for a while
My time here may be limited, but I hope to make a difference during my brief stay.




Contributed by Tyler E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

Lwkaz

Quase 20 anos ouvindo este Cd e continua um dos melhores.

Fernando Alves

Que banda extraordinária!! Lembro muita de ouvir no começo da minha adolescência, nostálgico!

Eber Vieira

Esse álbum é épico.

Johnny

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