Meaning of Faraway Eyes (Live 1995) by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones' song "Faraway Eyes" is a captivating narrative that explores themes of faith, love, and human connection. Set against the backdrop of a long drive through Bakersfield, the song takes us on a journey filled with irony and unexpected encounters.One of the standout lyrics in the song is when Mick Jagger sings, "I ran twenty red lights in his honor, Thank you Jesus, thank you lord." This lyric provides a deeper exploration of religious devotion and the lengths one might go to express their gratitude. It delves into the theme of blind faith, painting a picture of a character who is so overwhelmed with gratitude that they seemingly disregard societal norms.Another important lyric that adds depth to the song's themes is, "I had an arrangement to meet a girl, and I was kind of late, and I thought by the time I got there, she'd be off with the nearest truck driver she could find. Much to my surprise, there she was sitting in the corner, a little bleary." This lyric brings attention to the complex nature of relationships, highlighting the theme of love and how it can often defy expectations. It showcases the power of connection and suggests that even when we anticipate disappointment, there might still be hope.The chorus of the song provides further insight into the overarching theme. It states, "So if you're down on your luck and you can't harmonize, get a girl with faraway eyes. If you're downright disgusted and life ain't worth a dime, get a girl with faraway eyes." These lines introduce the idea that seeking solace in another person, particularly someone with an enigmatic or distant demeanor, can offer respite from the challenges and disappointments of life. It suggests that finding someone with a unique perspective can rejuvenate one's spirit and bring a new outlook.In addition to these standout lyrics, the song also incorporates instrumental solos that contribute to the overarching themes. The pedal steel guitar solo provides a sense of longing and wanderlust, representing the desires and dreams of the protagonist. Furthermore, the violin solo adds an element of melancholy, emphasizing the emotional depth and complexity of the song's themes.Through the exploration of unexpected encounters, religious devotion, love, and human connection, "Faraway Eyes" ultimately invites listeners to consider the ways in which we find purpose and hope in our lives. It encourages us to be open to unexpected connections and to seek solace in the unfamiliar. The song's resonating message is one of finding meaning and beauty in the most unlikely of places—a reminder to cherish every encounter and embrace the unknown.