Go Easy

John Martyn's song 'Go Easy' is a heartfelt plea for a more gentle and understanding life. The lyrics reflect the struggles and desires of a working man who seeks solace and simplicity amidst the chaos of daily life. The opening lines, 'Looking at me, you never find out what a working man’s about,' suggest a sense of being misunderstood or overlooked. Martyn contrasts the nocturnal revelry with the need for rest and recovery, hinting at a life that is both exhausting and unfulfilled. The repeated refrain, 'Life, go easy on me / Love, don’t pass me by,' serves as a poignant request for both life and love to be kinder and more forgiving.

The song delves into the need for emotional and mental relief. Phrases like 'Something to keep the pain away' and 'Something to keep me safe while I'm away' indicate a search for comfort and security. Martyn's lyrics suggest that he is looking for ways to cope with the pressures and pains of life, whether through love, creativity, or simple pleasures. The line 'Spending my time, making it shine, gotta throw away the rest' emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters and discarding the trivial or harmful aspects of life.

In the final verse, Martyn speaks to a universal desire for freedom and self-expression. 'One way for me, one way for you, one way for all of us / To get back home, do whatever we want to do' highlights the individual yet collective journey towards finding peace and happiness. The repetition of 'Love, don’t pass me by' underscores the essential role of love in achieving this state of well-being. Martyn's soulful delivery and evocative lyrics make 'Go Easy' a timeless appeal for compassion, understanding, and the simple joys of life.