Meaning of "Bright Eyes" by Art Garfunkel

"Bright Eyes" is a song that delves into the ethereal realm of dreams and enigmatic existence. The opening lines paint a picture of being adrift in a dream, contemplating the river of death and questioning the nature of reality. The fog and strange glow in the sky create an atmosphere of mystery and confusion, mirroring the elusive nature of dreams. The repetition of the question "is it a dream?" accentuates the uncertainty faced by the protagonist.

The chorus, with its repeated mention of "bright eyes," serves as a metaphor for the intensity of life and the fleeting nature of existence. The burning fire within the eyes exemplifies the passion, determination, and energy one possesses during their prime. However, the subsequent line, "how can you close and fail?" introduces a sense of vulnerability and mortality. It questions how something that once burned so brightly can suddenly lose its radiance and falter.

The second half of the song continues to explore the themes of uncertainty and transience. The mention of a shadow reaching into the night and wandering unseen symbolizes the intangible aspects of life that remain hidden and out of reach. The high wind, cold sounds, and darkness further emphasize the enigmatic nature of the human experience. The repeated questions of where and when one goes evoke a sense of disorientation and the fear of the unknown.

Overall, "Bright Eyes" can be interpreted in different ways, depending on one's perspective. It may represent the fragility of life, the impermanence of our passions, or the mysterious nature of dreams and the subconscious. It encapsulates the human tendency to contemplate the deeper meaning of our existence and the uncertainty that accompanies it.