Sailing
Andy Salmon/Christopher Cross/Michael Omartian/Rob Meurer/Tommy Taylor/Victor Feldman Lyrics

The song "Sailing" is a classic soft rock anthem that speaks of the freedom and escapism that comes with being out at sea. The opening lines, "Well, it's not far down to paradise, at least it's not for me," create a sense of longing for something beyond the everyday experiences of life. The lyrics suggest that sailing away from daily life is a source of peace and tranquility. The singer believes that the canvas can perform miracles, implying that the things that one holds dear on the sea can provide a sense of security and comfort.

The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with its catchy, upbeat melody and unapologetically optimistic lyrics. The repetition of the line "Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be," emphasizes the power of escape to an idealized world beyond one's immediate surroundings. The second verse follows a similar pattern, with the singer expressing the idea that the sea is a place where one can recapture the joy of innocence and experience a sense of fantasy. The lyrics continue to convey the feeling that the canvas, or sail, has mystical and almost supernatural qualities, and that it can lead the listener to a place of wonder and magic.

The final verse brings the listener back to reality, suggesting that while the sea may provide moments of idyllic escape, eventually one must return to everyday life. However, the singer emphasizes that the lessons and feelings gained from sailing can provide a lifetime of benefit. The chorus provides a sense of finality and resolution, with the line "And soon I will be free" offering the promise of relief and release, as well as the possibility of returning to the sea once more for further exploration and adventure.