Coming Back To Life
David Gilmour
Rebirth and Reflection in 'Coming Back To Life'
David Gilmour's 'Coming Back To Life' is a poignant exploration of personal rebirth and the journey from despair to renewal. The song opens with a series of questions directed at an absent figure, possibly a lover or a close friend, highlighting a period of intense emotional pain and isolation. The imagery of being 'burned and broken' and watching days slip by from a window suggests a time of deep introspection and helplessness. This period of suffering is compounded by the feeling of abandonment, as the person he addresses was preoccupied with 'someone else's words,' leaving him to face his struggles alone.
As the song progresses, Gilmour delves into a reflective state, contemplating the passage of time and the changes it brings. The 'seeds of life and the seeds of change' symbolize new beginnings and the potential for growth, even amidst adversity. The rain falling 'dark and slow' outside mirrors the somber mood, yet it also signifies a cleansing process. The 'heavenly ride through our silence' represents a meditative journey, a moment of clarity where he realizes the need to let go of the past. This realization marks a pivotal moment, as he decides to 'kill the past' and embrace a new chapter in his life.
The song's conclusion is both hopeful and resolute. Gilmour acknowledges that the waiting for change has begun, and he is ready to face the future with renewed strength. The repeated imagery of heading 'straight into the shining sun' symbolizes a bold move towards enlightenment and positivity. 'Coming Back To Life' is ultimately a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-reflection and acceptance.