All We Ever Look

Kate Bush's 'All We Ever Look' delves into the perpetual human quest for meaning, connection, and fulfillment. The song opens with a reflection on familial ties, suggesting that we inherit not just physical traits but also emotional and psychological legacies from our parents. The line 'Just look at your father / And you'll see how you took after him' underscores the idea that our identities are deeply intertwined with our lineage. Bush poignantly captures the unfulfilled dreams of previous generations, noting that 'All they ever want for you / Are the things they didn't do,' highlighting the cyclical nature of aspirations and regrets passed down through families.

The song then transitions to a broader existential exploration. Bush uses metaphors like 'another open door,' 'another womb,' and 'our own tomb' to illustrate the various stages and desires that define human existence. These lines suggest a longing for new beginnings, safety, and ultimately, an end to the search. The recurring theme of seeking 'a little bit of you' emphasizes the universal desire for personal connection and understanding, which often remains elusive.

Bush also touches on the societal pressures and expectations that shape our lives. The whims and desires we chase are contrasted with the harsher realities faced by previous generations, as seen in the line 'The whims that we're weeping for / Our parents would be beaten for.' This juxtaposition highlights the relative privilege of modern struggles while acknowledging the enduring nature of human longing. The song's closing lines, listing desires for 'a God,' 'a drug,' and 'a great big hug,' encapsulate the myriad ways people seek comfort and meaning, yet often find themselves unfulfilled. Through 'All We Ever Look,' Kate Bush masterfully captures the essence of the human condition, marked by an endless search for something just out of reach.