Beside You

Van Morrison's song 'Beside You' is a poetic and mystical journey that delves into themes of companionship, guidance, and the enigmatic nature of life's path. The song opens with the imagery of 'Little Jimmy' venturing out into the rain, symbolizing a departure from the familiar and a step into the unknown. This sets the tone for a narrative that is both introspective and expansive, exploring the idea of wandering through life's dark and narrow roads with a sense of purpose and timing.

The recurring mention of 'Broken Arrow' and the 'diamond-studded highway' evokes a sense of a spiritual or mythical journey. These metaphors suggest a path that is both challenging and beautiful, filled with moments of clarity and confusion. The song's protagonist is not alone on this journey; the repeated assurance of 'I'll stand beside you' emphasizes the importance of companionship and support. This promise of unwavering presence serves as a comforting anchor amidst the uncertainties of life.

Morrison's lyrics also touch on the idea of acceptance and surrender to life's mysteries. The refrain 'To never never wonder why at all' suggests a release from the need to understand or control every aspect of one's journey. Instead, there is a focus on being present and embracing the experience as it unfolds. The song's ethereal and almost hypnotic repetition of phrases like 'you breathe in you breathe out' and 'you turn around' further enhances this sense of being enveloped in the moment, wrapped in a 'magic shroud' of ecstasy and discovery. Ultimately, 'Beside You' is a celebration of the shared human experience, the beauty of the unknown, and the profound comfort of knowing that someone is always there, beside you.