| Jackson Browne – Our Lady of the Well Lyrics | 11 years ago |
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"Across my home has grown the shadow of a cruel and senseless hand, although in some strong hearts the love and truth remain." "... among your people in the sun, where the families work the land, as they have always done, oh its so far the other way my country's come." I believe this is a reference to USA immigration policy and to farm workers, perhaps after traveling south and visiting Mexican friends. The lyrics speak of truths more than 40 years ago, as well as unfortunately, the truths of today. Jackson wrote this when he was quite young, but I believe he already had the inner stirrings of political dissent. The lyrics are more poetic and not as overt and powerful as his later lyrics, such as "Lives in the Balance" and "Looking East". "Our Lady of the Well" gently hints both at the Catholicism that is so important to the Mexican families who work our land, and Mexico / California's shared use of water. The last lyrics, "If you come to me Maria, I will show you what I've made -- its a picture of Our Lady of the Well" may be describing the song he has just written, and the "picture" he has painted with words. I highly recommend listening to Lyle Lovett's rendition of this song on "Looking Into You" tribute album. Jackson Browne's lyrics are made for and from his heart and mind; he sings his songs best. However, Lyle makes a worthwhile heart felt effort! |
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