Back on the Corner
Van Morrison Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

I'm back on th' corner
I'm right back on th' corner
I've been in this condition so many times before

Back by my lonesome
I'm right back by my lonesome
Just watching th' people going from door to door
I've got to change my ways
And try to quit this place
'Cause one of these rainy days
I'm gonna need a friendly face

I'm back on th' corner
I'm right back on th' corner
I've been in this condition so many times before

I've got to change my ways
And try to quit this place




'Cause one of these rainy days
I'm gonna be a mental case

Overall Meaning

In Van Morrison's song "Back on the Corner," the lyrics depict the singer's personal struggle with addiction and loneliness. The repeated lines "I'm back on th' corner, I'm right back on th' corner" reflect a cycle of relapse that the singer has experienced repeatedly. He finds himself back in his usual spot, watching the people pass by and feeling the weight of his own isolation. The recognition that he has been in this condition "so many times before" suggests that this struggle is a constant in his life, and not one that is easily overcome.


The singer recognizes the need to change his ways and leave this place, but it's clear that he feels trapped by both his addiction and his surroundings. The lyrics hint at a future breakdown, with the line "I'm gonna be a mental case" suggesting that without intervention or change, the singer's mental health will begin to suffer under the weight of his struggles. The act of seeking out a "friendly face" is both practical advice and reflective of the singer's deep loneliness.


Overall, "Back on the Corner" is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of addiction and the powerlessness that often comes with it. The song is a mournful acknowledgement of the struggle that many face, and a call to action to seek help and make a change.


Line by Line Meaning

I'm back on th' corner
I find myself back in my usual spot on the street corner


I'm right back on th' corner
I'm exactly where I always end up


I've been in this condition so many times before
I've found myself in this same situation countless times


Back by my lonesome
Alone again, just me and my thoughts


I'm right back by my lonesome
Here I am, alone and feeling sorry for myself


Just watching th' people going from door to door
I'm stuck here watching the comings and goings of passersby


I've got to change my ways
I need to make some changes if I want a different outcome


And try to quit this place
I need to leave this spot and start fresh somewhere else


'Cause one of these rainy days
If I don't change something soon, I'm going to hit rock bottom


I'm gonna need a friendly face
I'll need someone to turn to for help when things get really bad


I'm gonna be a mental case
If I don't get out of here and make some changes, I'm going to lose my mind




Lyrics Β© BMG Rights Management
Written by: MOSE ALLISON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Christian Wagner

I've been listening to this show for years, but sweet mother of god, I didn't know there was video! The energy here is just outstanding.

Paul RJ

I dubbed the video from an old friend to DVD... priceless.

Carol Winans

IAM STILL HERE BENDING MY EAR LISTENING TO REASONS TO FILL MY EARS !!!!!😍

Robert Baugher

that Leo Green and Pee Wee Ellis saxophone bit at 12:07 is my all time favorite

Katherine Page

Absolutely full body, spirit and soul. He only gets better with time. Thank you God for this holy spirit in human body form, singing about you. I am so blessed everytime I hear Van's songs and his renition of life.

Douglas Monk

THAT IS SO ON TARGET. THE BULLS-EYE! GOOD JOB!

Christopher Williams

Great album, Van even smiles a few times and looks like he is enjoying himself. Those musicians must feel good that they have contributed to a selection of songs by Van Morrison as he changes his line up all the time, great stuff !

Bettie Mccall

What a GREAT performance!!! When God made him, He threw away the mold lol. He's truly one of a kind!!!

Thomas Haslam

GOD is Irish !

martin williams

Brian kennady on backing vocals is a great voice and always fits in nicely with vans voice. Great gig and great musicians very enjoyable ..........

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