Meaning of "Eyes Open Wide" by Toad The Wet Sprocket

The lyrics of "Eyes Open Wide" by Toad The Wet Sprocket convey a sense of urgency and a thirst for life experiences. The speaker is drawn to both the beauty and ugliness of the world, wanting to witness it all with eyes wide open. They recognize the destructive forces at play, such as cancer and cynicism, but still seek out meaning and purpose in their existence. The repeated refrain of "Keep my eyes open wide" suggests a determination to stay engaged and aware, even when faced with challenging or painful realities. Ultimately, the song is about embracing life in its entirety, with all its highs and lows, and finding significance in the act of seeing and experiencing the world around us.