Potential
The Swirling Eddies Lyrics


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Here's a speck on the canvas
A future projection
A drop in the bucket of tomorrow's successes

If I have the faith and know-how
I might watch the ship come in
My full potential
Successful men can tell at a glance if a man were born to lose
No one here has given me a chance
'Cept you, Lord
'Cept you

Fed on the air of my fantasies
They say I'm wasting away
A star-struck lover due for tragedy
Not true, baby
Not true





I will arrive
I realize my full potential, baby

Overall Meaning

The Swirling Eddies's song "Potential" is a deep reflection on the power of faith and self-belief to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. The opening lyrics, "Here's a speck on the canvas, a future projection, a drop in the bucket of tomorrow's successes," set the stage for a discussion of how small and insignificant one's potential can feel. However, the singer soon turns this around, proclaiming that if they have the faith and know-how, they might be able to watch the ship come in, and realize their full potential.


The song then takes an introspective turn, as the singer reflects on how others perceive them. "Successful men can tell at a glance if a man were born to lose," they say, acknowledging the ways in which society can be quick to judge and dismiss those who don't fit a certain mold. However, they also note that "no one here has given me a chance, 'cept you, Lord, 'cept you." This speaks to the power of faith and spirituality as a source of hope and encouragement, even in the face of adversity.


Line by Line Meaning

Here's a speck on the canvas
A small part of the overall picture, a tiny beginning


A future projection
Something that is hoped or expected to happen in the future


A drop in the bucket of tomorrow's successes
A small contribution towards future accomplishments


If I have the faith and know-how
If I have trust in myself and possess the necessary skills


I might watch the ship come in
I could witness the arrival of success


My full potential
The complete and maximum extent of my abilities


Successful men can tell at a glance if a man were born to lose
People who have attained success can recognize those who are unlikely to achieve it


No one here has given me a chance
No one in this place or situation has offered me an opportunity


'Cept you, Lord
Except for you, God


'Cept you
Except for you


Fed on the air of my fantasies
Nourished by my imaginative thoughts


They say I'm wasting away
People claim that I am deteriorating or deteriorated


A star-struck lover due for tragedy
Someone in love with fame and fortune, about to face downfall or disaster


Not true, baby
Untrue, my friend


I will arrive
I will reach my desired destination


I realize my full potential, baby
I attain and understand my complete abilities and strengths. Also, no derogatory meanings here, baby is a term of endearment.




Contributed by Josiah V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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