The Grateful Dead

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Right outside this lazy summer home
You ain't got time to call your soul a critic no
Right outside the lazy gate of winter's summer home
Wondering where the nuthatch winters
Wings a mile long just carried the bird away

[Chorus]
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has its beaches, its homeland and thoughts of its own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the morning brings
But the heart has its seasons, its evenings and songs of its own

[Verse 2]
There comes a redeemer
And he slowly too fades away
There follows a wagon behind him
That's loaded with clay
And the seeds that were silent
All burst into bloom and decay
And night comes so quiet, it's close on the heels of the day

[Chorus]
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has its beaches, its homeland and thoughts of its own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the morning brings
But the heart has its seasons, its evenings and songs of its own
[Verse 3]
Sometimes we live no particular way but our own
And sometimes we visit your country and live in your home
Sometimes we ride on your horses, sometimes we walk alone
Sometimes the songs that we hear are just songs of our own

[Chorus]
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has its beaches, its homeland and thoughts of its own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the morning brings
But the heart has its seasons, its evenings and songs of its own

Get ready to embark on a musical journey like no other with the iconic song, "Eyes of the World" by The Grateful Dead. First performed at Maples Pavilion, Stanford University on February 9, 1973, this track quickly became a staple in the Dead's live repertoire, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing blend of musical styles and profound lyrics.

"Eyes of the World" holds a deeper meaning that extends beyond its melodic arrangement. Inspired by the teachings of the acclaimed Buddhist practitioner Longchenpa, the song's title, "You are the eyes of the world," derives from Longchenpa's practical guide to tantra. Interestingly, this connection between the text and the lyrics written by Robert Hunter becomes apparent as both offer instructions on how to attain pure presence. This concept of pure presence, often experienced by Grateful Dead live concert attendees, creates a sensation that transcends the boundaries of time and space, taking listeners on an ethereal ride through the realms of consciousness.

About "Eyes of the World"

Now, let's delve deeper into the intricacies of "Eyes of the World." This exceptional track showcases the Grateful Dead's ability to seamlessly blend various musical genres, creating a unique fusion that defies categorization. Drawing influences from rock, jazz, funk, and even reggae, the song takes listeners on a sonic adventure that keeps them on the edge of their seats.

One of the defining features of "Eyes of the World" is Jerry Garcia's masterful guitar work. His intricate and soulful guitar playing effortlessly weaves through the vibrant tapestry of sound, captivating the listener's attention. Garcia's improvisational skills shine through as he fearlessly explores new musical territories during live performances, infusing each rendition of the song with a fresh and unpredictable energy.

The song's instrumentation goes beyond Garcia's guitar prowess. Phil Lesh's melodic bass lines provide a strong foundation for each verse, locking in with the rhythmic grooves created by drummer Bill Kreutzmann and percussionist Mickey Hart. Together, their tight-knit rhythm section forms the backbone of the song, driving the momentum and propelling it forward.

As the song unfolds, Keith Godchaux's skillful piano playing adds a layer of depth and elegance, complementing Garcia's guitar and enhancing the overall sonic experience. Godchaux's contributions are further augmented by his wife, Donna Jean Godchaux, whose harmonic vocals intertwine seamlessly with those of Jerry Garcia and Bob Weir, creating breathtaking vocal harmonies that elevate the emotional impact of the song.

Lyrically, "Eyes of the World" invites listeners to reflect on the profundity of their own existence and their connection to the universe. The words crafted by lyricist Robert Hunter paint vivid pictures and invoke deep introspection. Combined with the mesmerizing music, these lyrics transport listeners to a realm beyond the ordinary, encouraging them to embrace the present moment and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.

One of the remarkable aspects of "Eyes of the World" is its versatility. Despite its consistent themes and core structure, the song varies from performance to performance, never ceasing to surprise and captivate. The Grateful Dead often ventured into lengthy improvisational sections during live renditions of the song, allowing each musician to express their individuality and pushing the boundaries of the music further.

The transcendental nature of "Eyes of the World" makes it a favorite among both dedicated Deadheads and casual listeners. Its ability to transport the audience to a higher state of consciousness, where time stands still and the music becomes an immersive experience, is truly awe-inspiring. Whether you're a fan of the Grateful Dead or simply a seeker of transcendent musical experiences, "Eyes of the World" is a journey you won't want to miss.

So, close your eyes, open your ears, and let the enchanting sounds of "Eyes of the World" wash over you. Allow yourself to be transported to a realm where music becomes a gateway to pure presence, and let the Grateful Dead take you on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you craving more.

• Release Date: October 15, 1973
• Artist: The Grateful Dead