Meaning of "Thousand Yard Stare" by Big Country

The lyrics of "Thousand Yard Stare" by Big Country delve into the emotional turmoil and psychological impact of war on soldiers, focusing on the experience of survivor's guilt. The narrator expresses deep regret for not being able to protect his brother in battle and carries the burden of his death with him constantly. The repetition of seeing the "boy with the thousand yard stare" highlights the lasting trauma and haunting memories of war that the soldier cannot shake off. The portrayal of the soldier's struggle to reconcile his love for his brother with the circumstances that led to his death underscores the complex emotions that come with surviving while others do not. The lyrics also touch on the theme of brotherhood and the bond between soldiers who share the trauma of war, as well as the difficulty of returning to normalcy after witnessing the horrors of conflict. Overall, the song poignantly captures the overwhelming sense of loss, guilt, and enduring memories that soldiers carry with them long after the war is over.