Eight Miles High
The Perception Lyrics


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Eight miles high
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
Nowhere is
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

Overall Meaning

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
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