I'm On Your Side
Paul Kelly Lyrics


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You've been crying a long long spell
You've been drinking from the Devil's own well
You're just hanging on to your pride
Hold on to me now
I'm on your side

I'm on your side when you think there's no one
I'm on your side when darkness falls
I'm on your side
All you gotta do is call

The trees on the shoreline are all fresh from the rain
The ship on the water is heading for the main
Open your window, let the good air inside
You don't always know when
There's a change in the tide

I'm on your side when others turn on you
I'm on your side when your back's to the wall
I'm on your side
All you gotta do is call

I'm on your side though you might not believe it
I'm on your side when the shit rains down
I'm on your side




I'm gonna stand your ground, stand your ground
Ooh, call on me, all you gotta do is call

Overall Meaning

The song I'm On Your Side by Paul Kelly is a comforting and supportive song that assures the listener that no matter what they're going through, they have someone on their side. The opening lines set the tone for the song, describing the listener as someone who has been crying and drinking from the Devil's own well, indicating they may be going through some tough times. The next lines, however, provide comfort and assurance that even though the listener may feel alone and helpless, the singer is on their side and will be there for them. The repeated refrain of "I'm on your side" reinforces this message of unwavering support.


The second stanza paints a picture of hope and new beginnings with the imagery of the fresh trees and ship heading for the main. This is juxtaposed with the line "you don't always know when there's a change in the tide", suggesting that while things may seem difficult now, change is always possible and often comes unexpectedly. The singer assures the listener that no matter what happens, they'll be there to provide support and guidance in navigating these changes.


The final stanza reiterates the message of support and solidarity, even in the face of adversity. The line "I'm on your side when the shit rains down" suggests that even when things get difficult or messy, the singer will not abandon the listener. The repeated refrain of "stand your ground" encourages the listener to hold on and keep fighting, knowing that they have someone in their corner.


Overall, the song is a powerful testament to the importance of support and empathy in difficult times. It acknowledges that life can be tough, but reassures the listener that they are not alone in their struggles.


Line by Line Meaning

You've been crying a long long spell
You've been crying for an extended period of time


You've been drinking from the Devil's own well
You've been consuming things that are harmful to you


You're just hanging on to your pride
You're refusing to let go of your ego


Hold on to me now
Take my hand right now


I'm on your side when you think there's no one
I'm here for you when you feel all alone


I'm on your side when darkness falls
I'm supporting you when things get tough


I'm on your side
I'm your ally


All you gotta do is call
Just reach out to me


The trees on the shoreline are all fresh from the rain
The trees near the water look revived after the rain fall


The ship on the water is heading for the main
The ship is sailing towards the open sea


Open your window, let the good air inside
Allow some positivity into your life


You don't always know when there's a change in the tide
You might not be aware of the shift in situation


I'm on your side when others turn on you
I'll be by your side when others betray you


I'm on your side when your back's to the wall
I'm here for you when you're stuck and can't escape


I'm on your side
I'm your friend


All you gotta do is call
Just let me know you need me


I'm on your side though you might not believe it
I'm not going anywhere, even if you think otherwise


I'm on your side when the shit rains down
I'm here to support you through the bad times


I'm gonna stand your ground, stand your ground
I'm going to help you hold your position


Ooh, call on me, all you gotta do is call
Just reach out to me, I'll be there




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Paul Kelly, Daniel O Kelly

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Nicole Stott

One of my absolute favourite songs; accidentally found.
Amazing song for when shit hits the fan, or goes a bit wrong.
🖤💜
Bloody amazing.
Powerful.
The feeling in this song...
Hits the spot over and over again..
💌.

Nicole Stott

Fucking Amazing ❣️💯

Alice Eather

legend of Australia!

Nicole Stott

Yes

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