On The Outside Looking In
The Tennessee Three Lyrics
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But you can't change the smallest part of all the wrongs you've done
Looking back in anger like you do
I'm not preachin' I'm just talkin' but I believe in what I say
That look of anger that you keep flashin' won't accomplish you anything today
Reach out your hand someone will take it
Someone took mine then I saw a different view
And a lot less looking back in anger like you do
You're still a victim of the pornographic past
The smutty face of evil showing through
But you can't take away the scars that you put on that face
Looking back in anger like you do
Now I ain't preachin'...
The Tennessee Three's song "On The Outside Looking In" is a poignant ballad that explores themes of regret, redemption, and the power of forgiveness. The opening lyrics describe a person who is consumed by bitterness and tormented by their past mistakes. They are unable to change the wrongs they have done, and they are haunted by their own anger and resentment.
The singer of the song, who is not preaching but simply talking, urges the person to reach out for help and support. They suggest that holding onto anger and looking back on past mistakes will not lead to anything positive. By reaching out to others and accepting their help, the person might be able to overcome their past and find a new perspective.
The song also explores the idea that our past mistakes can leave lasting scars that are difficult to erase. Even if the person in question wants to move on and leave their past behind, the evidence of their mistakes may still be visible to others. However, the singer of the song suggests that with enough love and compassion, it might be possible to overcome even the most damaging scars and start anew.
Overall, "On The Outside Looking In" is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the human experience of regret, redemption, and the search for meaning and connection in life.
Line by Line Meaning
A cold bitter mist covers your eyes torment is raging in you
You are filled with pain and anguish, unable to see through the fog of your misery.
But you can't change the smallest part of all the wrongs you've done
No matter how hard you try, you cannot undo the past mistakes you have made.
Looking back in anger like you do
You constantly dwell on the past with bitterness and resentment, unable to move on.
I'm not preachin' I'm just talkin' but I believe in what I say
I am not trying to lecture you, but I truly believe in the advice I am giving you.
That look of anger that you keep flashin' won't accomplish you anything today
Your constant display of anger and hostility will not help you in any way right now.
Reach out your hand someone will take it
If you ask for help, someone will be there to support and guide you.
Someone took mine then I saw a different view
When someone reached out to me, it changed my perspective and helped me see things differently.
I saw it'd take take a lot more loving
I realized that in order to heal and move on, I needed to show myself and others more love and forgiveness.
And a lot less looking back in anger like you do
Instead of focusing on the past and feeling angry, it would be more beneficial to let go and move forward.
You're still a victim of the pornographic past
You are still haunted by the negative experiences and trauma of your past.
The smutty face of evil showing through
The pain and suffering you have experienced has manifested itself in a dark and negative way.
But you can't take away the scars that you put on that face
Although you can't change the past, you are responsible for the impact it has had on your life.
Looking back in anger like you do
By dwelling on the past with anger and bitterness, you hinder your ability to move forward and heal.
Now I ain't preachin'...
I am not trying to force my beliefs on you, but I hope that my advice can help you in some way.
Lyrics © FAMILY AIRS PUBLISHING, BMG Rights Management
Written by: GLEN SHERLEY, HARIAN SANDERS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind