Together Alone
Bruce Cockburn Lyrics


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So many things to see in this old world
But all I can see is you
In a crowded subway train
Or walking in the country rain
You're there with me too

Of all the songs sung in any day
Your voice is all I hear
For though each song has its own place
And, finished, quickly fades away
I hear you everywhere

And though I know you won't be pleased
By all that I do
Surely we can find a way
To overlook what you don't like

It's been said many times that we're all by ourselves
And each man is on his own
I don't care, that may be true




I just want to be with you
Together alone

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Bruce Cockburn's song "Together Alone" express the power of human connection and the longing for the presence of a loved one. The singer describes how, despite being surrounded by various distractions, all he sees is the person he loves. The idea that someone can be with you even in your thoughts while in a crowded place or while walking alone shows how profound their connection is. The singer states that he hears his loved one's voice everywhere, which might imply that they are either not present in his life or have passed away.


The song also reflects the conflicts or dynamics of a relationship. The singer acknowledges that they might not always see eye-to-eye, and that his lover may not be pleased with everything he does. Nevertheless, he hopes that they can find a way to overcome their differences for the sake of their relationship. The phrase "together alone" suggests a certain level of independence and mutual respect in the relationship. It is a remarkable expression of the desire for connection, unity and acceptance within a couple or partnership.


Overall, "Together Alone" speaks to the deep and complex nature of human relationships, and highlights the importance of being with the people one loves, even if they are sometimes at odds with each other.


Line by Line Meaning

So many things to see in this old world
There are numerous things to witness in this old world.


But all I can see is you
Despite the numerous things that can be seen in the world, you're the only thing that I can see.


In a crowded subway train
In a densely-packed subway vehicle,


Or walking in the country rain
Or even while walking in the rain in rural areas,


You're there with me too
You're always walking with me.


Of all the songs sung in any day
Of all the melodies that are played during any given day,


Your voice is all I hear
Your voice is the only thing that's audible to me.


For though each song has its own place
Although each song is special in its own way,


And, finished, quickly fades away
And once it's over, it rapidly vanishes.


I hear you everywhere
I can hear you no matter where I go


And though I know you won't be pleased
Even though I understand that you won't be happy


By all that I do
By everything that I do in my life,


Surely we can find a way
We can certainly find a solution


To overlook what you don't like
To ignore what you don't approve of.


It's been said many times that we're all by ourselves
Many individuals have claimed that we're on our own in this world.


And each man is on his own
Each person is responsible for their destiny.


I don't care, that may be true
I'm not concerned, that misconception may be valid


I just want to be with you
I simply want to be with you, no matter what.


Together alone
Together we'll remain, yet in our unique universe.




Contributed by Gianna P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

Aurelio Gago

great album of 1970

George Gray

Good music; too bad you criticize other people's taste in music

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