Ride My See-saw

The Moody Blues' song 'Ride My See-saw' delves into the complexities of life's journey, using the metaphor of a see-saw to represent the ups and downs that one experiences. The see-saw, a playground apparatus that moves up and down, symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, where moments of joy and success are often followed by challenges and setbacks. The invitation to 'ride' the see-saw suggests a willingness to embrace these fluctuations and to share the experience with others.

The lyrics reflect a sense of disillusionment with the conventional path of life. The narrator speaks of working hard 'like a slave for years' to overcome fears and avoid poverty, only to realize that this effort may have been in vain. The line 'School taught one and one is two, but by now, that answer just ain't true' highlights a disconnection between the theoretical knowledge gained in school and the practical realities of life. This disillusionment is further emphasized by the narrator's desire to 'run' and escape the confines of societal expectations.

The song also touches on themes of freedom and the search for a better place. The repeated invitation to 'take a free ride' and 'find another place that's free' suggests a longing for liberation from the constraints of everyday life. The idea of sharing one's place and seat for free indicates a sense of camaraderie and collective experience. Ultimately, 'Ride My See-saw' is a reflection on the human condition, the pursuit of happiness, and the realization that life's journey is filled with both highs and lows, much like the motion of a see-saw.