Sitting

Cat Stevens' song 'Sitting' is a profound exploration of self-discovery and the journey of life. The lyrics convey a sense of movement and progress, both physically and spiritually, as the artist reflects on his path and the lessons learned along the way. The repeated phrase 'Oh I'm on my way, I know I am' suggests a deep-seated confidence in the direction he is heading, even if the destination remains somewhat elusive. This journey is not just about physical travel but also about personal growth and enlightenment, as indicated by the line 'I feel the power growing in my hair,' which metaphorically represents gaining wisdom and strength over time.

The song delves into existential questions and the nature of consciousness, particularly in the lines 'I keep on wondering if I sleep too long, will I always wake up the same (or so)?' This reflects a fear of stagnation and the desire for continuous growth and change. Stevens also touches on the idea of legacy and what remains after death, as seen in 'when I am dead and lowered low in my grave, that's gonna be the only thing that's left of me.' This line underscores the importance of living authentically and true to oneself, rather than conforming to others' expectations.

'Sitting' also highlights the struggles and challenges faced along the journey. The metaphor of life as a 'maze of doors' that 'all open from the side you're on' suggests that opportunities and solutions are always within reach, but one must keep pushing forward. The song's conclusion, 'You're going to wind up where you started from,' implies a cyclical nature of life, where the end is often a return to the beginning, enriched by the experiences and wisdom gained along the way. This cyclical journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance and self-belief in navigating life's complexities.