Meaning of "Back on Top" by Van Morrison

In "Back on Top," Van Morrison explores the notion of reaching the summit of success and the accompanying feelings of emptiness and isolation that can come with it. The song begins with the singer recounting a time when someone supported him during a difficult period, symbolized by the new moon and standing in the rain. However, as he climbs to the top of the hill, he finds himself meeting with "the fools," perhaps referencing the industry's empty promises and deceptive characters. Despite learning his lesson and having his fill, he realizes that it was all in vain and finds himself back on the street, back on the beat, and back on top again.

The lyrics convey a sense of constant striving and climbing, going beyond one's will, and always feeling like one is moving but actually going slow. This suggests the relentless pursuit of success without fully considering the consequences or the true meaning behind it. The singer poses the question of what to do when reaching the top and finding there’s nowhere else to go, highlighting the ultimate realization that material success does not bring lasting fulfillment.

The line "Just how I get there will be anybody's guess" reflects the uncertainty and unpredictability of the journey to success, with the trappings of it being merely superficial and fleeting. The singer juxtaposes this with leaving the deadbeats on the top of the hill and focuses on his own growth and progress. However, he feels trapped, busy raising Cain, and finds himself back on the street again, back on the top again.

The repetition of the refrain reinforces the cyclical nature of the pursuit of success and the realization that returning to the top does not bring any substantial change or satisfaction. The song concludes with the singer being back on his feet again, back on the street again, and back on the top again, emphasizing the continual cycle and the lack of true progress.