Meaning of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Seal

"A Change Is Gonna Come" is a song that speaks to the struggles and hopes of marginalized individuals who have been yearning for a better future. The lyrics describe a journey that the narrator has undertaken, born into a life where they have always been on the run, symbolized by being born by the river in a little tent and constantly running since then. The river represents the passage of time and the challenges they have faced. The narrator acknowledges that it has been a long time coming, but they hold onto the belief that change is inevitable.

The song touches upon the existential fear of death and the unknown. The line "It's been too hard living, but I'm afraid to die, 'Cause I don't know what's up there, beyond the sky" expresses the struggle of living in a world filled with hardships and discrimination while also having uncertainties about what lies beyond death. The fear of the unknown and the desire to find solace and purpose are intertwined throughout the song.

The lyrics also reveal the isolation and warning the narrator receives from others. The line "But somebody keeps telling me don't hang around" suggests that there are forces or people trying to discourage the narrator from pursuing their aspirations and dreams. Despite these warnings, the narrator remains steadfast in their belief that change will come.

The song concludes with a plea to the narrator's brother for assistance, symbolizing the need for unity and collective support to bring about change. However, the plea is met with disappointment as the narrator is knocked down, emphasizing the challenges and setbacks faced in their pursuit of a better future.

Overall, "A Change Is Gonna Come" conveys a message of resilience, faith, and the inevitability of change. It speaks to the experiences of those who have been oppressed or discriminated against, providing hope that despite the difficulties, a brighter future is on the horizon.