Tightrope
Jack Bruce Lyrics


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Higher on the wire – see the man
SLowly he steps slowly – don't look down
Higher on the tightrope in the sky

Dare you walk the wild earth any more?
Naked as the day when you were born
Higher on the tightrope in the sky.




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Jack Bruce's "Tightrope" can be interpreted in a number of ways, but one possible meaning is that of risk-taking and the human desire to reach new heights, whether literal or figurative. The opening lines describe a man walking a tightrope high up in the sky, his steps slow and deliberate as he tries to maintain his balance. This image can be seen as a metaphor for any difficult or dangerous task in life, as we often have to carefully tread a narrow path to achieve our goals.


The second verse speaks to the precarious nature of our existence, with the question "Dare you walk the wild earth any more?" suggesting that life itself can feel like a tightrope walk at times. The nakedness of the human figure mentioned in the lyrics underscores our vulnerability as we try to navigate the challenges that come our way. However, despite the precariousness of our situation, the chorus urges us to keep reaching higher, to keep striving for something more, even if it means taking risks along the way.


Overall, "Tightrope" can be seen as a powerful testament to the human spirit, which perseveres in the face of adversity and strives for greatness, even when the odds seem insurmountable.


Line by Line Meaning

Higher on the wire – see the man
Observe the man who is on the high wire


Slowly he steps slowly – don't look down
He moves deliberately, avoiding the temptation to look below


Higher on the tightrope in the sky
He continues on the high rope in the sky


Dare you walk the wild earth any more?
Are you brave enough to continue walking on the unpredictable earth?


Naked as the day when you were born
Without any protection or cover, just like when you were born


Higher on the tightrope in the sky.
Still making progress on the high rope in the sky




Contributed by Bella G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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