Eight Miles High
The Perception Lyrics
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And when you touch down
You'll find that it's
Stranger than known
Signs in the street
That say where you're goin'
Are somewhere
Just being their own
There warmth to be found
Among those afraid
Of losing their ground
Rain gray town
Known for its sound
In places
Small faces unbound
Round the squares
Huddled in storms
Some laughing
Some just shapeless forms
Sidewalk scenes
And black limousines
Some living
Some standing alone
The lyrics to "Eight Miles High" by The Perception can be interpreted as a reflection on the alienation and disorientation experienced when entering unfamiliar territory. The phrase "Eight miles high" suggests a state of elevation or transcendence, perhaps representing a heightened level of consciousness or perspective. However, upon landing or coming back down to reality, the singer realizes that this new realm is even stranger than what they had previously known.
The mention of "Signs in the street that say where you're goin'" indicates the presence of guidance or direction, but these signs are merely existing for their own sake and do not provide any true clarity. The lyrics convey a sense of detachment and isolation, as the singer observes a lack of warmth or connection among people who are afraid of taking risks and losing their stability.
The lines "Rain gray town known for its sound / In places small faces unbound" suggest a dreary and mundane cityscape where individuality and freedom are suppressed. The mention of "round the squares huddled in storms" depicts a sense of vulnerability and struggle within a collective setting. The reference to "some laughing, some just shapeless forms" reflects the diverse experiences and emotional states of people in this environment.
The lyrics also allude to a stark contrast between the opulence of "black limousines" and the anonymity of those "standing alone." This further highlights the divide between those who are able to thrive in this strange world and those who are left marginalized or disconnected.
Overall, "Eight Miles High" can be interpreted as a commentary on the disconcerting and alienating aspects of modern society, where individuals may feel lost and disconnected in the face of societal norms and expectations.
Line by Line Meaning
Eight miles high
Reaching a heightened state of consciousness or perception
And when you touch down
When you come back to reality
You'll find that it's
Reality is
Stranger than known
More mysterious and unpredictable than what was previously understood
Signs in the street
Symbols and messages in the everyday world
That say where you're goin'
That attempt to guide you in your journey
Are somewhere
Exist in their own realm
Just being their own
Operating independently and uniquely
Nowhere is
There is no place
There warmth to be found
Where one can find comfort and solace
Among those afraid
Within the hearts of those who are frightened
Of losing their ground
Fearful of losing stability and security
Rain gray town
A gloomy and melancholic place
Known for its sound
Recognized for its distinctive atmosphere
In places
In certain locations
Small faces unbound
People with untamed and unrestricted aspirations
Round the squares
Gathered in public spaces
Huddled in storms
Seeking refuge and unity amidst turmoil
Some laughing
Expressing joy and amusement
Some just shapeless forms
Others without clear identity or purpose
Sidewalk scenes
Scenarios observed on the streets
And black limousines
Luxurious vehicles representing wealth and privilege
Some living
Individuals actively experiencing life
Some standing alone
Others feeling isolated and disconnected
Lyrics © RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC
Written by: David Crosby, Gene Clark, Roger Mcguinn
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind