Bird On A Wire

The Neville Brothers' rendition of 'Bird On A Wire' is a poignant exploration of the human struggle for freedom and the quest for redemption. The song opens with the metaphor of a bird on a wire, symbolizing a delicate balance between freedom and constraint. This imagery is juxtaposed with the image of a drunk in a midnight choir, suggesting a sense of disorientation and longing for liberation. The narrator admits to trying to be free in their own way, acknowledging the imperfections and mistakes made along the journey.

The lyrics delve deeper into the narrator's sense of guilt and remorse. The line 'Like a fish on a hook' evokes a sense of entrapment and vulnerability, while 'Like a knight from some old fashioned book' suggests a sense of duty and honor. The narrator confesses to saving all their 'ribbons'—perhaps symbols of achievements or tokens of affection—for a loved one. This admission is followed by a plea for forgiveness for any unkindness or untruths, emphasizing the narrator's desire to make amends.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on the pain they have caused others, likening themselves to a 'baby stillborn' and a 'beast with his horn.' These powerful images convey a deep sense of regret and self-awareness. However, the narrator vows to make things right, swearing by the song and their past wrongdoings. The repeated refrain of 'Like a bird, free as a bird, free' underscores the yearning for liberation and the hope for redemption. The song concludes with a sense of resolution, as the narrator assures their loved one that the debt has been paid and urges them not to cry anymore, suggesting a sense of closure and peace.