"Well all those people, they think they've got it made
but I wouldn't buy, sell, borrow, or trade
anything I have to be like one of them
I'd rather start all over again"
I believe he's referring to movie stars/rock stars who think they have it all just because they're rich. He's saying he wouldn't buy sell borrow or trade anything he has (his memories, amazing music, experience, knowledge, love, hate, etc.) to be like one of those materialistic celebrities (in the spotlight, popular). Some people would like to be like them but he doesn't, and that's his point.
Also I might add I believe this song was directed at Carrie Snodgress, his wife at the time.
Shakey, I think you got some of it right but I don't think Neil is as unreliable as you think. The pause before "I've got mine" isn't hesitation.. I think it symbolizes him digressing and thinking happy thoughts in his mind (about the mountains) for a bit before he says the "I've got mine". I think it's lyrically/musically genius.
And then the second verse he describes his dream (nature it seems) and then reminds himself that yes, he does have his own dreams.
This song has always sounded like one of Neil's happiest in my opinion, not depressing. His lyrics and tone seem more hopeful than anything.
badge I think you misread his lyric:
"Well all those people, they think they've got it made but I wouldn't buy, sell, borrow, or trade anything I have to be like one of them I'd rather start all over again"
I believe he's referring to movie stars/rock stars who think they have it all just because they're rich. He's saying he wouldn't buy sell borrow or trade anything he has (his memories, amazing music, experience, knowledge, love, hate, etc.) to be like one of those materialistic celebrities (in the spotlight, popular). Some people would like to be like them but he doesn't, and that's his point.
Also I might add I believe this song was directed at Carrie Snodgress, his wife at the time.
Shakey, I think you got some of it right but I don't think Neil is as unreliable as you think. The pause before "I've got mine" isn't hesitation.. I think it symbolizes him digressing and thinking happy thoughts in his mind (about the mountains) for a bit before he says the "I've got mine". I think it's lyrically/musically genius.
And then the second verse he describes his dream (nature it seems) and then reminds himself that yes, he does have his own dreams.
This song has always sounded like one of Neil's happiest in my opinion, not depressing. His lyrics and tone seem more hopeful than anything.