Meaning of Wishing Well by INXS

The INXS song 'Wishing Well' is a captivating track that delves into profound themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and the power of one's own choices. The song encourages listeners to seek their own truth, embrace positivity, and navigate through life's challenges with resilience. Each lyric of the song reinforces these themes with unexpected twists and imaginative elements that contribute to its overall narrative.The opening line, "If you ever want to taste it, go down to the wishing well," sets the tone for the song's exploration of personal growth and self-exploration. The wishing well symbolizes a metaphorical gateway to self-discovery. It represents a place where one can reflect, gather strength, and draw inspiration. However, the mention of "poison in the well" suggests that external influences can be detrimental to one's journey, reinforcing the importance of staying true to oneself despite the obstacles."All men, I'll take you down and tell you why" suggests a profound sense of guidance and wisdom. Here, the song seems to personify an omniscient force that leads individuals through the ups and downs of life. This particular lyric resonates with the idea that external forces can often shape one's perspective and understanding, underscoring the need to be open to new experiences and knowledge.The repetition of the phrase "Gonna show the way" emphasizes the power of taking charge of one's destiny. The song implies that one must embrace their inner strength and resilience to navigate through life successfully. It encourages individuals to believe in themselves, to trust their instincts, and to have faith that they possess the ability to overcome any obstacle. These lyrics reinforce the theme of self-empowerment and assert that individuals have the agency to shape their own fate.The lyrics "Take it to the river, take it to the world" signify the importance of sharing one's innermost desires, dreams, and aspirations with the world. It implies that personal growth and self-discovery should not be confined to an individual's internal realm. Instead, one should take their newfound understanding and inner strength out into the world, using it to inspire and influence others positively. This lyric suggests that true fulfillment lies not just in personal growth but in the ability to contribute to the well-being of others.The lyrics "If you ever wanna taste it, never look right or left, look ahead" demonstrate the importance of staying focused and not being swayed by external distractions or societal pressures. It suggests that true fulfillment comes from following one's own path and not comparing oneself to others. The song encourages listeners to stay committed to their personal journey and to believe in their own capabilities, even when faced with doubt or criticism.The repeated mention of being a "healer" symbolizes the transformative power of self-discovery and personal growth. It suggests that by embracing their true selves, individuals have the ability to heal themselves and others. This particular lyric emphasizes the ripple effect that individual transformation can have on the world, reinforcing the idea that personal growth is not only beneficial for the self but also for society as a whole.Overall, 'Wishing Well' is a song that encapsulates the universal human quest for self-discovery and personal growth. Its unexpected and imaginative themes highlight the importance of remaining true to oneself, embracing resilience, and the transformative power of individual agency. INXS's masterful lyrics convey a message of empowerment, encouraging listeners to embark on their own journey of self-exploration and to use their newfound understanding to create positive change in the world.