Who Can I Turn To?

Van Morrison's song "Who Can I Turn To?" delves into the profound feelings of loneliness and the search for purpose and connection. The lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with a sense of abandonment and uncertainty about their future. The opening lines, "Who can I turn to when nobody needs me," immediately set a tone of isolation and longing. The protagonist is in search of direction, yearning to understand where their destiny lies, but feels lost without a guiding star or a companion by their side.

The song's narrative progresses with a glimmer of hope as the protagonist contemplates the possibility of finding what they are looking for. The lines, "Maybe tomorrow I'm going to find what I'm after," suggest a sense of optimism and determination to overcome sorrow and seek joy, even if it means resorting to desperate measures like begging, stealing, or borrowing. This reflects a deep desire to experience happiness and laughter, highlighting the human need for emotional fulfillment and connection.

The repeated verse emphasizes the importance of having someone to rely on, someone to learn from and emulate. The question, "Who can I turn to if you turn away," underscores the fear of losing that crucial support system. Van Morrison's soulful delivery and the poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone and in need of a guiding presence. The song captures the universal struggle of navigating life's uncertainties and the hope that, despite the darkness, there is always a possibility of finding light and companionship.