While founder Belville is a devout Christian, it is difficult to apply the same label to the band itself; while the lyrics are at times clearly infused with a strong element of faith, they are not specifically based around praise and at no point could they be considered to be preaching a message.
The music of The Echoing Green is heavily based in electronic sounds, however these are used more for their melodious structure than any desire to create an electronic dance outfit. As such, the music comes across as a well shaped, driving flow of intricate harmonies, underpinned with somewhat reflective, even introverted, lyrics.
Pray
The Echoing Green Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
As you would a child
In a land
Of oppression
Millions
Cry around the world
But I cry
In your back garden
And I'll pray for you
Well, it's no revolution
But it's something
Something we can do
I'll pray
Today
Today
Today
Today
Pray for me
As you do for peace
In a world
Of aggression
Hear me
It must make the news
For us to show
Some affection
Please pray for me
Like I pray for you
Well, it's no revolution
But it's something
Something we can do
I'll pray
Today
Today
Today
Today
Today
Today
Today
Today
The Echoing Green's song "Pray" is a plea for help to end oppression and aggression in the world. The opening lines of 'Pray for me, as you would a child in a land of oppression' sets the stage for the song's narrative. The singer is asking for help and guidance from the listener, likening their plight to that of a child in an oppressive world. The song then goes on to highlight the fact that millions of people around the world are crying out for help in the face of oppression and hatred, and while the singer's particular struggle may be happening in their own backyard, the collective cries for help should be heard and addressed by all.
The lyrics 'Please pray for me, and I'll pray for you' suggests that the singer recognizes that everyone has their struggles, and in asking for the listener's help, they understand that they too have something to offer in return. The song acknowledges that praying may not bring about a revolution or a significant change in the world, but it still holds the power to do something, and something is better than nothing.
The repeated line, 'Today, Today, Today' indicates a sense of urgency for help to come and for change to happen. Overall, 'Pray' is a call to action for empathy and compassion, asking listeners to acknowledge the struggles of others and to work towards a better world where oppression and aggression are no longer the norm.
Line by Line Meaning
Pray for me
Ask for divine intervention on my behalf
As you would a child
In the same manner as you would make supplication for a vulnerable and dependent youngster
In a land
Within a particular region
Of oppression
Marked by harsh and unjust treatment, often with a political or social motive
Millions
A vast number of people
Cry around the world
Expressing emotional distress and pain on a global scale
But I cry
I am also in a state of emotional anguish
In your back garden
Though I am close to you, my suffering goes unnoticed
Please pray for me
I implore you to ask for divine aid for my situation
And I'll pray for you
In return, I will make supplication for your needs
Well, it's no revolution
Though it may not be a drastic or abrupt change, it is still a meaningful action
But it's something
It may be a small act, but it is still significant
Something we can do
It is within our power and ability to take this action
I'll pray
I commit to making a supplication
Today
In this moment, without delay
Pray for me
I request that you make a plea to a divine power on my behalf
As you do for peace
In the same way you ask for harmony and tranquility
In a world
Within a global community
Of aggression
Marked by hostile and violent behavior, often with a political or military motive
Hear me
Take notice of my plea
It must make the news
A situation only becomes significant when it is reported in the media
For us to show
To elicit a response or reaction
Some affection
A display of compassion, love, or sympathy
Like I pray for you
In the same way I make supplication for your needs
Today
Without delay or hesitation
Today
In this present moment
Today
With urgency and emphasis
Today
Without postponement or delay
Today
In this time-frame and no other
Today
Right now, at this precise moment
Today
Without any delay or procrastination
Lyrics © CLAY MUSIC CORPORATION, Universal Music Publishing Group, Capitol CMG Publishing
Written by: GEORGE BROWN, ROBERT MICKENS, CLAYDES SMITH, RICHARD WESTFIELD, ROBERT BELL, RONALD BELL, ANDRE CROUCH, SCOTT V. SMITH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind