Meaning of "Rise" by Daryl Braithwaite

The lyrics of "Rise" delve into the lives of people who have been marginalized and forgotten by society. The references to friends, foes, and firewood gathering in the tenements highlight the sense of community that forms among these individuals. They come together, supporting each other in their struggles, with the “fast one” helping to provide food for those who are slower or less fortunate. This portrayal of unity amidst hardship showcases the resilience and strength they possess.

The song also sheds light on the loss of freedom experienced by these individuals, as their lives have become confined to the streets. The mention of sleeping in the subway, the only place they call their own, highlights the lack of stability and security they face. The repetition of the line "somehow everything is turning upside down" emphasizes the chaos and uncertainty of their lives.

In addition to the collective struggles, the lyrics touch upon the personal story of a daughter who has left her family home. The reasons for her departure are not explicitly mentioned, but her sporadic visits to wash her clothes and witness her mother's tears suggest a strained relationship or a desire to escape her troubled family environment. The lyrics also mention the "seeds of revolution" growing inside her, implying a desire for change and a refusal to accept the circumstances she has been born into.

Overall, the song's meaning resides in the concept of rising. Despite the challenges and hardships faced by these individuals, they find a way to rise and overcome. Whether it is through their own unique paths or through the support of their community, they refuse to be defined by their circumstances. The lyrics point to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, illustrating that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope and the potential for change.