Lighthouse
Hans Zimmer Nick Glennie-Smith and Harry Gregson-Williams Lyrics

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Build yourself a boat, babe
Make yourself a sail
Float into the ocean
To nowhere
Yeah, I see you looking
Looking for a sign
Praying for a beacon
So here's the light

My arms will be wide open
For the moment you arrive, arrive

When you set sail on your journey
And happiness is far away
Love will guide you 'til the morning
Lead your heart down to the bay
Don't resist the rain and storm
I'll never leave you lost at sea
I will be your lighthouse keeper
Bring you safely home to me
I will be your lighthouse keeper
Bring you safely home

Yeah, I see you're lonely
Going in alone
Fire up the engine
Stoke the coal
Floating on a feeling
Fighting with the tide
Hoping you'll be home for Christmas time

My arms will be wide open
For the moment you arrive, arrive

When you set sail on your journey
And happiness is far away
Love will guide you 'til the morning
Lead your heart down to the bay
Don't resist the rain and storm
I'll never leave you lost at sea
I will be your lighthouse keeper
Bring you safely home to me

I will be your lighthouse keeper
Bring you safely home to me

Overall Meaning

"Lighthouse" is a song about support, comfort, and guidance during difficult times. The lyrics present a metaphorical journey, where the singer is encouraged to embark on a journey by building a boat and setting sail. The singer acknowledges the search for meaning and direction, offering themselves as a guiding light, a lighthouse, to help navigate through life's trials and bring the singer safely back home.

The first verse speaks to the singer's longing for a sign and a beacon, someone or something to provide guidance and reassurance. The singer asserts that they will be there with open arms, ready to embrace the singer upon their return. It signifies a sense of unwavering support, suggesting that no matter how long or challenging the journey may be, their loved ones will always be there to welcome them back.

The second verse further emphasizes the theme of support and guidance. It acknowledges the loneliness and uncertainties that come with embarking on a journey alone, but encourages the singer to ignite their passion and face the challenges that come their way. Love is depicted as the compass that will lead them to happiness and the destination they seek. The singer reiterates their commitment to being the lighthouse keeper, ensuring the singer's safe return.

Line by Line Meaning

Build yourself a boat, babe
Take the initiative and create a vessel for yourself, my dear

Make yourself a sail
Craft a means to catch the wind and navigate

Float into the ocean
Drift into the vast expanse of the sea

To nowhere
Without a specific destination in mind

Yeah, I see you looking
I perceive your longing gaze

Looking for a sign
Searching for a symbol to indicate the way

Praying for a beacon
Beseeching for a guiding light

So here's the light
Therefore, I present to you illumination

My arms will be wide open
I will embrace you wholeheartedly

For the moment you arrive, arrive
At the very instance of your arrival

When you set sail on your journey
As you embark on your expedition