I believe this song has a little deeper meaning. Browne's wife committed suicide before this album was produced. Many of the songs, as a result, are dedicated to her memory. For A Dancer as an example,
"I can't help feeling stupid standing 'round, crying asd they ease you down."
This is talking about standing at her graveside as they lowered her casket.
So many of his songs have a deep sadness, especially as it relates to love. Her death must have had a profound affect on him. The song These Days was written to her memory. Love Needs a Heart - "Love needs a heart, and I need to find, if love needs a heart like mine."
I believe Farther On, then, is an abrupt look at how much his view of love changed after her death. And that he may never find love again, but he will continue to pursue it. And in order to do that, he will have to rely on faith.
I believe this song has a little deeper meaning. Browne's wife committed suicide before this album was produced. Many of the songs, as a result, are dedicated to her memory. For A Dancer as an example,
"I can't help feeling stupid standing 'round, crying asd they ease you down."
This is talking about standing at her graveside as they lowered her casket.
So many of his songs have a deep sadness, especially as it relates to love. Her death must have had a profound affect on him. The song These Days was written to her memory. Love Needs a Heart - "Love needs a heart, and I need to find, if love needs a heart like mine."
I believe Farther On, then, is an abrupt look at how much his view of love changed after her death. And that he may never find love again, but he will continue to pursue it. And in order to do that, he will have to rely on faith.