Meaning of "On the Western Skyline" by Bruce Hornsby And The Range

The lyrics of "On the Western Skyline" convey a deep sense of longing and anticipation for love and companionship. The song depicts a narrator who finds themselves alone in the evening, near the bay. The roadlights on the bridge are turned on, signaling the beginning of the night. As a diesel rolls by in the distance, the narrator observes lovers finding solace in the setting sun.

In the midst of twilight, the narrator yearns to find someone to share their life with. They believe that their soulmate is "out there somewhere," on the western skyline. This phrase suggests that the person they are destined to be with is waiting over the horizon, just out of reach.

The song further explores the narrator's loneliness and the struggles they face in life. The rooftops sag on Second Street, symbolizing a sense of deterioration and the hardships faced by those living in bachelor's quarters. Their lives are filled with too much fun and not enough money, and their dreams outweigh their hopes. The voices on the radio, telling the narrator where to go, imply societal pressures and the constant bombardment of advice and expectations.

The lyrics also touch on themes of violence and conflict. The bandstand, where people gather to enjoy music, is described as a place where sailors come when they hear a whistle blow. However, underneath the streetlight, there is a sense of violence in the afterglow. This may represent the hidden conflicts and turmoil that exist beneath the surface of seemingly peaceful situations.

The song ends with the narrator picturing a shiny Cadillac and a city limits sign, symbolizing a desire for a better life and escape from their current circumstances. The admiral's daughter, mentioned in the lyrics, represents a forbidden love or a person who is unattainable. The narrator wishes to be with this person, despite the battle lines that separate them.

Ultimately, "On the Western Skyline" is a reflection on the universal longing for love and connection. It explores themes of hope, dreams, loneliness, societal pressures, and the search for a better life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator's yearning while suggesting that their soulmate may be waiting just beyond the horizon.