Wishing Well

In 'Wishing Well' by Free, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a restless soul searching for peace and fulfillment. The song opens with a casual, almost carefree tone, inviting the listener to 'take off your hat, kick off your shoes,' suggesting a moment of relaxation. However, this is quickly contrasted by the acknowledgment that the person addressed is 'always saying farewell' and never truly satisfied unless they are 'with your feet in the wishing well.' This metaphor of the wishing well symbolizes a place of hope and dreams, where one goes to make wishes for a better future, yet it also implies a sense of longing and unfulfilled desires.

The song delves deeper into the struggles of this individual, who seems to be caught in a cycle of self-doubt and hidden pain. Lines like 'throw down your gun you might shoot yourself' and 'you have always got something to hide' suggest a battle with inner demons and a tendency to keep emotions and true intentions concealed. Despite these struggles, there is a glimmer of hope as the lyrics encourage putting up a fight for what is right, with the promise that 'someday the Sun will shine through.' This reflects a belief in eventual redemption and the possibility of finding peace.

The recurring theme of wishing for 'love in a peaceful world' underscores the universal desire for harmony and connection. The song's closing lines, 'I wish you well,' serve as a heartfelt farewell and a hopeful blessing, acknowledging that everyone has their own dreams and struggles. Free's 'Wishing Well' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, capturing the essence of longing, hidden pain, and the enduring hope for a better, more peaceful world.