Reach Down

Temple Of The Dog's song 'Reach Down' is a poignant exploration of personal struggle, redemption, and the quest for inner peace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dream where the narrator encounters a figure in a bar, adorned in a long white leather coat and purple glasses, symbolizing a unique and perhaps lost soul. This figure's journey to the 'dog shows' and subsequent loss of direction reflects a broader theme of searching for purpose and meaning in life. The mention of having 'all this room and no money to decorate it' suggests a sense of emptiness and unfulfilled potential, a common human experience.

The song's chorus, 'You gotta reach down and pick the crowd up, carry back in my hand to the promised land,' serves as a powerful metaphor for lifting oneself and others out of despair and towards a better future. This imagery of reaching down and lifting up the crowd signifies a communal effort towards redemption and hope. The 'promised land' can be interpreted as a state of peace, fulfillment, or spiritual enlightenment, a place where the struggles and frustrations of life are left behind.

In the second verse, the narrator describes an angel shining their wings and making them promise not to reveal the spell they were under. This angelic figure represents guidance and support, helping the narrator to feel 'lighter than a breath from a dove' and free from the burdens that once held them back. The reference to 'love was my drug, but that's not what I died of' suggests that while love was a powerful force in their life, it was not the cause of their downfall. Instead, the narrator seeks rest and peace, emphasizing the importance of self-care and inner tranquility. The song ultimately conveys a message of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of love and support.