The Meaning Behind The Song: Be by Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond released “Be” in 1973 as the lead single off his album “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” The song’s lyrics are both simple and profound, speaking to the human experience of striving and transformation. Diamond’s soaring vocals lend weight to the message that even in our darkest moments, we can rise above our limitations and be who we were meant to be.

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The Lyrics of “Be”

The song opens with an opening verse:

“Lost, on a painted sky,
Where the clouds are hung
For the poet’s eye.
You may find him
If you may find him.”

This opening sets a contemplative tone for the song. The feeling of being lost is echoed in the chorus that follows:

“Be, as a page that aches for a word
Which speaks on a theme that is timeless
And the one God will make for your day.

Sing, and the sun
Will find you,
In time.

There is something about the repetition of the word “be” that is both calming and motivational. The chorus reminds listeners to keep searching for purpose and meaning in their lives, and that even in moments of uncertainty, there is always hope.

The second verse of “Be” speaks to the challenges that we face in life, and the power of perseverance:

“Round
Like a circle in a spiral
Like a wheel within a wheel
Never ending or beginning,
On an ever-spinning reel
As the images unwind,
Like the circles that you find
In the windmills of your mind.”

This verse is sung in a more subdued tone than the first, but it carries a lot of weight. The idea of life being like a never-ending circle can be overwhelming, but the gentle melody of the verses encourages us to keep pushing forward. The chorus following the second verse is a bit different:

“Fly, to the high,
Run, to the low,
Live everyday,
Till you find a way.”

This repetition of “fly” and “run” is a powerful message about pushing forward no matter what obstacles life may throw our way. There is a sense of urgency in the words that makes us want to take action towards creating the life we want to live.

Context Behind “Be”

“Jonathan Livingston Seagull” was a short book written by Richard Bach, and it became a cultural phenomenon when it was published in 1970. The story focuses on a seagull named Jonathan who becomes obsessed with flying. He wants to understand the nature of flight and what makes it so exhilarating. He is ultimately banished from his flock, but he continues to pursue his passion, eventually transcending his physical limitations and becoming something more than a regular seagull.

The story speaks to the human experience of striving and transformation, something that is echoed in “Be.” The song is Diamond’s interpretation of the themes presented in the book. The message of “Be” is that we all have the potential to transcend our limitations and become something more. It’s about finding purpose and meaning in our lives, and pursuing our passions even when it seems impossible.

The Legacy Of “Be”

In the years since its release, “Be” has become one of Neil Diamond’s most iconic songs. It has been covered by countless artists, and its message of perseverance and transformation has resonated with people from all walks of life. The song has been used in various film and TV soundtracks, and it remains a beloved classic in Diamond’s catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to “Be”

1. What inspired Neil Diamond to write “Be”?

Neil Diamond was inspired by Richard Bach’s book “Jonathan Livingston Seagull,” which explores the themes of transformation and perseverance. “Be” is Diamond’s interpretation of those themes, and it serves as a reminder that we all have the potential to become more than we ever thought possible.

2. What does the word “be” mean in the context of the song?

The word “be” is repeated throughout the song to encourage listeners to keep pushing forward and searching for purpose and meaning in their lives. It reminds us that even in moments of uncertainty, there is always hope.

3. Is “Be” a religious song?

While “Be” mentions the idea of a higher power (“And the one God will make for your day”), it is not necessarily a religious song. The message of the song is universal, and it speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost or unsure about their place in the world.

4. What is the legacy of “Be”?

5. Why is “Be” considered one of Neil Diamond’s most beloved songs?

“Be” is considered one of Neil Diamond’s most beloved songs because of its simple yet profound message. Its themes of perseverance and transformation are universal, and the soaring melody and vocals make it a compelling and inspiring anthem.

6. What is the message of “Be”?

The message of “Be” is about finding purpose and meaning in our lives and pursuing our passions, even when it seems impossible. It encourages us to keep pushing forward and to never give up on our dreams.

7. What is the significance of “Be” in the context of “Jonathan Livingston Seagull”?

“Be” is Diamond’s interpretation of the themes presented in Richard Bach’s book “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” The song speaks to the human experience of striving and transformation, something that is echoed in the book.

8. How has “Be” impacted Neil Diamond’s career?

“Be” has become one of Neil Diamond’s signature songs, and its message of perseverance and transformation has resonated with fans for decades. The song remains a beloved classic in Diamond’s catalog.

9. Has “Be” been covered by other artists?

Yes, “Be” has been covered by many artists over the years, including Barbra Streisand, Roberta Flack, and Ray Charles.

10. How does the book “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” relate to “Be”?

“Be” is Diamond’s interpretation of the themes presented in Richard Bach’s book “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” The book explores the concepts of transformation and perseverance, which are echoed in the song’s message.

11. What is the genre of “Be”?

“Be” can be classified as a soft rock or adult contemporary song.

12. In what year was “Be” released?

“Be” was released in 1973 as the lead single off Diamond’s album “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.”