I
Eric Clapton Lyrics

I dreamed I saw St. Augustine
The singer had a dream where he saw a vision of St. Augustine.

Alive as you or me
St. Augustine was alive in the dream, just like any other person.

Tearing through these quarters
St. Augustine was moving quickly and with a sense of urgency through the environment around him.

In the utmost misery
St. Augustine appeared to be deeply unhappy or in a state of anguish.

With a blanket underneath his arm
St. Augustine was carrying a blanket, possibly suggesting his need for warmth or comfort in his misery.

And a coat of solid gold
St. Augustine also had a golden coat, which could symbolize his religious or spiritual power or influence.

Searching for the very souls
St. Augustine was searching for specific souls, potentially those who have already been corrupted or lost.

Already have been sold
These souls may have already been corrupted or led astray by various temptations or hardships.

Arise, arise, he cried so loud
St. Augustine urged people to wake up and pay attention to his message.

In a voice without restraint
St. Augustine's voice was strong and powerful, as if he couldn't hold back his words.

Come out, ye gifted kings and queens
St. Augustine called upon those who had influence or talents to help him convey his message.

And hear my sad complaint
St. Augustine had a grievance or concern that he wanted people to address.

No martyr is among you now
There is currently no one willing to suffer or sacrifice themselves for the greater good.

You can call your own
People have to take responsibility for their own actions and their own choices.

So go on your way accordingly
People should act according to their own conscience and values.

Know you're not alone
People should take comfort in knowing that there are others who share their struggles or ideals.

I dreamed I saw St. Augustine
The singer had a second dream where he saw St. Augustine again.

Alive with fiery breath
St. Augustine appeared more passionate and intense in this second dream, as if he had a burning fire within him.

I dreamed I was amongst the ones
In the dream, the singer felt like he was part of a group responsible for St. Augustine's suffering or death.

That put him out to death
The singer felt guilty for causing St. Augustine's demise.

Oh, I awoke in anger
The singer woke up from the dream feeling angry and upset.

So alone and terrified
The singer felt isolated and scared by the weight of his guilt.

I put my fingers against the glass
The singer touched the glass, as if he was in prison or trapped in his own thoughts.

And bowed my head and cried
The singer felt overwhelmed and emotional, and began to cry.