In December 2007, David Byrne announced on the BBC Radio music show, The Weekender, that he was working Brian Eno on a brand new album of "proper songs", describing it as a "completely different thing" from My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, which was mostly experimental. Eno had invited Byrne to finish some songs that he had written but that did not have lyrics, some of which were eight years old. The resulting album, Everything That Happens will Happen Today, was self-released on August 18, 2008 through the official album's website. No record label was involved, and it available for stream or download at EverythingThatHappens.com.
A Secret Life
Brian Eno & David Byrne Lyrics
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Is it me? You don't know, don't worry
Just get your teeth back
Just keep doing your thing don't worry
The sun ain't shining
Why are people still crying?
Pace through the morning you feel my mind
And I miss you so much
But you're not on your side
Cause I'm still breathing
In my secret life, in my secret life
Hold on, hold on my brother
My sister hold on tight
Finally found my whole life
Soldiers marching through the morning
Marching through the night
Moving across the borders of our secret life
Of my secret life
I see it clearer you made yourself like that
But I your part that call was mine
Hold on, hold on my brother
My sister hold on tight
Finally found my whole life
Soldiers marching through the morning
Marching through the night
Moving across the borders of our secret life
The lyrics to Brian Eno's song "The Secret" evoke a sense of uncertainty and reflection on personal experiences. The opening lines, "You don't know, don't worry, Is it me? You don't know, don't worry, Just get your teeth back, Just keep doing your thing don't worry," suggest a state of confusion and reassurance. It seems as though the singer is talking to someone who is unsure or feeling lost, offering encouragement to stay true to themselves and not be concerned about what others think.
The lines "The sun ain't shining, Why are people still crying?" convey a sense of disillusionment or disappointment towards the world. Despite the absence of positivity, there remains a question of why people continue to suffer or express sadness. It could be interpreted as a commentary on the undercurrents of struggle and pain that exist even in seemingly bright and optimistic times.
The chorus, "And I miss you so much, But you're not on your side, Cause I'm still breathing, In my secret life, in my secret life," suggests a longing for someone or something, perhaps a lost connection or a missed opportunity. The idea of a "secret life" gives the impression of a hidden existence or internal world that only the singer is aware of. It creates a sense of mystery and introspection, hinting at the complexity of the human experience and the layers of emotions we may carry within us.
Overall, "The Secret" captures a feeling of uncertainty, reflection, and the hidden aspects of one's personal journey. It invites the listener to explore their own secret life and find solace in their individual experiences.
Line by Line Meaning
You don't know, don't worry (hold up)
You may lack knowledge and understanding, but there is no need to be concerned (wait a moment)
Is it me? You don't know, don't worry
Could it be my fault? You are unaware and should not be preoccupied
Just get your teeth back
Recover your resilience and determination
Just keep doing your thing don't worry
Continue pursuing your own path without anxiety
The sun ain't shining
The world may not be experiencing brightness or positivity
Why are people still crying?
What is the reason behind people's continued sadness and tears?
Pace through the morning you feel my mind
Walk briskly during the morning and sense the workings of my thoughts
Tasting to feel it this the time?
Are you attempting to discern and experience the present moment?
And I miss you so much
I deeply long for your presence
But you're not on your side
However, you are not supporting your own interests
Cause I'm still breathing
Because I am still alive and surviving
In my secret life, in my secret life
Within the concealed aspects of my existence, in my hidden reality
Hold on, hold on my brother
Maintain your grip, persevere, my male sibling
My sister hold on tight
My female sibling, grasp firmly and endure
Finally found my whole life
I have ultimately discovered the completeness of my existence
Soldiers marching through the morning
Warriors moving forward during the early part of the day
Marching through the night
Advancing and progressing throughout the darkness of night
Moving across the borders of our secret life
Transitioning beyond the boundaries of our clandestine existence
I see it clearer you made yourself like that
I perceive it more vividly, you have shaped yourself in that manner
But I your part that call was mine
Yet, I hold ownership over the role you played
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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