"Reason to Believe" reminds me somewhat of "Born in the USA" in that upon first listen, the sound of the song gives one distinct impression, though deeper examination of the lyrics gives one a slightly different one. "Born in the USA" has a chorus that, if one wasn't paying attention, seems like a joyous expression of patriotism.
Similarly, "Reason to Believe," being probably the most upbeat song on the Nebraska album, appears to close the album with a lingering hopefulness after the bleak nature of first nine songs. Though immediately in the first verse, Springsteen paints a pathetic picture, of a man hoping against all reasonable hope that his dog will spring to life and return to the way it once was. Though the man somehow has found "a reason to believe," this verse is far from inspiring and comes across as merely sad. Could Springsteen be employing a touch of uncharacteristic ironic humor?
The following verses continue the themes of loss. Though each character does maintain hope, Springsteen never gives any of these characters fulfillment, and leaves them waiting and longing for the days before their loss.
This makes "Reason to Believe" a perfect fit as closer to a near perfect album.
"Reason to Believe" reminds me somewhat of "Born in the USA" in that upon first listen, the sound of the song gives one distinct impression, though deeper examination of the lyrics gives one a slightly different one. "Born in the USA" has a chorus that, if one wasn't paying attention, seems like a joyous expression of patriotism.
Similarly, "Reason to Believe," being probably the most upbeat song on the Nebraska album, appears to close the album with a lingering hopefulness after the bleak nature of first nine songs. Though immediately in the first verse, Springsteen paints a pathetic picture, of a man hoping against all reasonable hope that his dog will spring to life and return to the way it once was. Though the man somehow has found "a reason to believe," this verse is far from inspiring and comes across as merely sad. Could Springsteen be employing a touch of uncharacteristic ironic humor?
The following verses continue the themes of loss. Though each character does maintain hope, Springsteen never gives any of these characters fulfillment, and leaves them waiting and longing for the days before their loss.
This makes "Reason to Believe" a perfect fit as closer to a near perfect album.