Struggle
Clannad Lyrics


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Traveling down a dirty road
Covered with moss
And see the gray stones
Green as luscious fields in sight
A dark moonlight night
When the past flashes by
Coming from the heavens like a falling star
That you wish upon
Isn't it a struggle
To find a good friend?
Isn't it a struggle
To have to defend
Isn't it a struggle
You have to take that chance to lend a hand
Well I'm traveling down a dirty road
Clearing up all that's known
A misty occurrence happens all the time
Around every corner a brighter day lies
Loads of mercy, beauty beholds
An eye for a partner as good, as good as gold
Green as luscious fields in sight
A dark moonlight night
When the past flashes by
Coming from the heavens like a falling star
That you wish upon
Isn't it a struggle
To find a good friend?
Isn't it a struggle?
To have to defend?
Isn't it a struggle
You have to take that chance to lend a head
Isn't it a struggle
To find a good friend?




Isn't it a struggle?
To have to defend?

Overall Meaning

The song "Struggle" by Clannad explores the theme of friendship and the struggles that come with it. The lyrics describe a journey down a dirty road, which is covered with moss and gray stones. However, amidst this bleak landscape, there are green and luscious fields in sight, representing hope and beauty. The singer reflects on the past that flashes by like a falling star and the struggles of finding a good friend and having to defend oneself. The song acknowledges that these struggles are part of life, but it also encourages the listener to take chances and lend a helping hand to others.


It is interesting to note that the song was released in 1979 as part of Clannad's debut album, "Clannad". This album put the Irish band on the map and established them as one of the leading lights of Celtic music. Moreover, the album featured the haunting vocals of Maire Brennan, who would later emerge as the band's lead singer and most recognizable member. Another interesting fact is that the band consisted of siblings, including Moya, CiarΓ‘n, PΓ³l, and Noel Γ“ DΓΊgain.


Furthermore, the song's lyrics were written by SeΓ‘n Γ“ Riada, an Irish composer and arranger who played a crucial role in the revival of traditional Irish music. He was responsible for introducing elements of Irish folk music into contemporary classical music, and his compositions had a profound impact on the Irish music scene. Clannad was heavily influenced by Γ“ Riada's work, and it's not surprising that they covered one of his songs on their debut album.


In addition, the song's arrangement is notable for its use of traditional Irish instruments such as the uilleann pipes, fiddle, and bodhrΓ‘n. This creates a unique sound that blends folk and contemporary music styles. The song also features the signature ethereal vocals of Maire Brennan, which would become one of the hallmarks of the band's sound.


Overall, "Struggle" is a poignant song that captures the struggles of making meaningful connections with others in a world that can be harsh and unforgiving. The song's haunting melody, emotive vocals, and evocative lyrics make it a standout track on Clannad's debut album.


Chords (source: ultimate-guitar.com)
Verse: Am - D - G - C - G - D - Am
Chorus: C - G - Am - F - C - G - Am - C - G - Am - F - C - G - Am.


Line by Line Meaning

Traveling down a dirty road
I am on a journey down a rough path


Covered with moss
The path is overgrown and unkempt


And see the gray stones
There are stones along the path that are gray in color


Green as luscious fields in sight
Despite the rough path, there are patches of green grass that are beautiful to see


A dark moonlight night
It is a dark and probably lonely night


When the past flashes by
Memories of the past come rushing into my mind


Coming from the heavens like a falling star
The memories are very vivid and appear suddenly


That you wish upon
They are memories that I may want to relive or change


Isn't it a struggle
Isn't it difficult


To find a good friend?
To find someone who is trustworthy and a true friend


To have to defend
To have to protect oneself or something important


You have to take that chance to lend a hand
You have to be willing to help others and take the risk of being hurt or rejected


Clearing up all that's known
I am trying to make sense of everything that has happened in the past


A misty occurrence happens all the time
There is always some sort of obstacle or problem that comes up


Around every corner a brighter day lies
Despite the challenges, there is always hope for a better future


Loads of mercy, beauty beholds
There is a lot of kindness and beauty in the world despite the struggles


An eye for a partner as good, as good as gold
There is someone out there who will be a loyal and trustworthy friend or partner




Lyrics Β© Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: CIARAN MARION BRENNAN

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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