Meaning of Far Away Eyes (Live 1978) by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones' song, "Far Away Eyes (Live 1978)," conveys a fascinating mixture of religious devotion, romantic pursuit, and the pursuit of one's dreams. The song intertwines these themes to create a narrative that showcases the band's wit and storytelling prowess. As the song unfolds, the lyrics reveal unexpected and imaginative themes tied to the overarching themes of faith, love, and longing.Right from the start, the song presents a unique and refreshing perspective on religious devotion. Mick Jagger recounts driving home through Bakersfield while listening to gospel music on the radio. The preacher's message about having the Lord by one's side resonates deeply with Jagger, leading him to joyfully commit a series of traffic violations in the preacher's honor. This seemingly strange connection between faith and reckless behavior highlights the theme of finding solace and liberation in unexpected places.Moving forward, the lyrics introduce the pursuit of love and the fear of missed connections. Jagger describes having an arrangement to meet a girl but arriving late, fearing she might have found someone else. Then, much to his surprise, he discovers her sitting alone with "far away eyes." This intriguing detail brings an imaginative theme to the forefront. The idea of someone with "far away eyes" suggests a sense of depth, mystery, and perhaps a longing for something beyond the present moment. It symbolizes an unconventional beauty and captures the essence of longing and unfulfilled desires.The chorus of the song further reinforces this theme of longing. Jagger suggests that if one is down on their luck or disappointed with life, finding a partner with "far away eyes" can offer solace. This unexpected perspective on finding companionship highlights the idea that shared longing and a sense of otherworldliness can be a source of comfort and understanding. It challenges traditional notions of compatibility and encourages embracing the uniqueness of one's partner.The second verse introduces a social critique and an exploration of the power of religion. Jagger narrates his experience of sending money to a church, hoping for his dreams to come true. This ironic twist reveals the theme of vulnerability and the desire for guidance and fulfillment. The fact that Jagger's prayer is read on the radio station implies the commodification of faith and the exploitation of people's hopes and dreams. It reflects the human tendency to seek answers and reassurance from external sources, even when they might not be genuine.As the song concludes, the chorus resurfaces, reminding listeners of the recurring themes. However, this time, the lyrics are emphasized with an outro, signaling the song's final statement. The repeated call to find solace in a partner with "far away eyes" reinforces the idea that understanding and empathy can be found in unexpected places. It suggests that shared experiences of longing and disappointment can create deep connections and provide solace in a world that often feels overwhelming.In conclusion, "Far Away Eyes (Live 1978)" by The Rolling Stones weaves together themes of faith, love, and the pursuit of dreams in a truly imaginative and unexpected way. The song's standout lyrics, such as the connection between religious devotion and traffic violations, the allure of someone with "far away eyes," and the critique of the commodification of faith, each contribute to the overarching theme. Together, they remind us that solace and understanding can be found in unconventional places and that shared experiences of longing can create profound connections. This iconic Rolling Stones song continues to captivate audiences with its wit, storytelling, and exploration of the human experience.