Meaning of "Morning Yearning" by Ben Harper

"Morning Yearning" embodies a sense of anticipation and renewal that comes with the start of a new day. The first verse sets the scene with a finger's touch upon the speaker's lips, symbolizing quiet solitude and reflection. The desire to keep the curtains shut and the yearning for darkness, despite the burning sun, suggest a reluctance to face reality, perhaps due to the challenges and struggles inherent in daily life. However, the world awakens and continues its relentless pace, driven by the pursuit of success and the hope for better days to come.

The lyrics offer a glimpse into the cycle of learning and growth that is intertwined with the passage of time. The line "Another day, another chance to get it right, must I still be learning" reflects the universal struggle to navigate life's challenges and constantly improve oneself. It acknowledges the ups and downs, the mistakes made along the way, but also the opportunity for growth and the potential for a fresh start each day. The mention of a baby crying, keeping the speaker up all night, adds a layer of complexity to this theme. It represents the responsibilities and sacrifices that come with nurturing new life and the accompanying yearning for rest and peace.

The final verse shifts the focus to love, describing it as the warmest place where the sun ever shines. This love becomes a source of comfort and solace in the midst of the speaker's morning yearning. It portrays love as a constant, unwavering force that provides hope and a refuge from the challenges of life. The comparison of the speaker to a summer rose, a victim of the fall, adds a touch of vulnerability, as if the speaker is acknowledging their own imperfections and fragility. Despite this, they express a determination to return to the love that brings light and warmth to their life.

Overall, the lyrics of "Morning Yearning" capture the universal experiences of longing, growth, and the power of love. It speaks to the human condition and the constant search for meaning and purpose in the face of life's challenges.