wheels
N. Petty Lyrics

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One of these days, my old friend
You and I won't worry no more
One of these nights it'll all wash away
And we'll wake up singing a brand-new song
We'll wake up singing a whole new song

One of these nights, my little love
One of our ships will come in

One of these nights we'll fall asleep
Then wake up singing a brand-new song
We'll wake up singing a brand-new song

So much confusion has entered my life
So much confusion has torn me apart
So much confusion has made me afraid
And I don't know how to love
And I don't know who to trust
And I don't know what I did

So much confusion has entered my life
So much confusion goes 'round in my brain
So much confusion has torn me apart
And I don't know how to love
And I don't know who to trust
And I don't know why that is

One of these days, my old friend
You and I will walk through that door
One of these days, we'll drive away

Drive away singing a brand-new song
We'll wake up singing a brand-new song

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Tom Petty's "Wheels" evoke themes of transition, hope, and renewal. The opening verse reflects a vision of peace and freedom from worries that the singer hopes to achieve someday with a friend. The imagery of washing away troubles and waking up to a new song suggests a fresh start and a sense of optimism that things will get better.

In the following verses, the lyrics shift to a more personal and intimate tone as the singer addresses their "little love." The mention of a ship coming in symbolizes the arrival of good fortune or fulfillment of dreams. Falling asleep and waking up to a brand-new song signifies a transformation or positive change taking place within the relationship, bringing about a renewed sense of joy and possibility.

The refrain of "So much confusion..." highlights the struggles and inner turmoil the singer is experiencing. The repetition of not knowing how to love, who to trust, or why things have turned out the way they have reflects a deep sense of vulnerability and uncertainty. The confusion mentioned portrays an emotional state of being lost and questioning one's own actions and choices.

The concluding verses circle back to the themes of hope and transformation, envisioning a future where the singer and their friend will walk through a metaphorical door and drive away, leaving behind the past. The act of driving away while singing a brand-new song symbolizes moving forward and embracing change, with the promise of a new beginning on the horizon. Overall, the lyrics of "Wheels" convey a journey of personal growth, resilience, and the belief in a brighter tomorrow.

Line by Line Meaning

One of these days, my old friend
In the future, my long-time companion

You and I won't worry no more
We will no longer feel anxious

One of these nights it'll all wash away
At some point, all troubles will disappear

And we'll wake up singing a brand-new song
We will awaken with a fresh perspective

One of these nights, my little love
Eventually, my dear

One of our ships will come in
We will experience success

One of these nights we'll fall asleep
At some point, we will rest

Then wake up singing a brand-new song
And then rise with renewed hope

So much confusion has entered my life
I am overwhelmed by uncertainty

So much confusion has torn me apart
Uncertainty has caused me pain

So much confusion has made me afraid
Anxiety stems from uncertainty