So, so you1 think you can tell
Heaven from Hell2,
Blue skies from pain
Can you tell a green field
From a cold steel rail3?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
Did they4 get you to trade
Your heroes for ghosts5?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
And did you exchange
A walk on part in the war6
For a lead role in a cage?7
How I wish, how I wish you were here.
We're8 just two lost souls
Swimming in a fish bowl,
Year after year9,
Running over the same old ground.
What have we found
The same old fears10.
Wish you were here
1) “You” refers to Syd Barret, a former member of the band who left after occasional mental breakdowns.
2) “Heaven From Hell” represent Syd’s moral compass and his decision on whether or not to abuse any more drugs.
3) “Can you tell a green field from a cold steel rail?” highlights Water and Gilmour’s concern for Syd. They’re asking if Syd is aware of how much he’s dramatically changed over the years.
4) “They” hints at drugs and pressure from the media
5) “heroes for ghosts” refer to friends and family in exchange for drugs
6) “A walk on part in the war” alludes to the band’s camaraderie and loyalty to each other. Also signifies their commitment to their music and fans
7) “Lead Role in a cage” recalls the moment when Syd was locked up in a linen cupboard by his groupies after experience a psychedelic crisis.
8) “We’re” is a mention of Roger Waters and Syd Barret.
9) “Year after Year” details exactly how long and excruciating it’s been for both sides, Barret and Waters, on coming to terms dealing with each other.
10) “same old fears” has a double meaning. It refers back to Syd’s traumatic experiences with his addiction to drugs and LSD. It also represents Waters’ and Gilmour’s constant fear for Syd and his well-being.
Wish You Were Here
Written by: Roger Waters and David Gilmour
Rock
Year: 1975
Glossed by: Aaron Lum
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