Song meaning of A Sense of Wonder by Van Morrison

"A Sense of Wonder" by Van Morrison is a song that encapsulates the beauty and magic of life's simple pleasures. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the changing seasons and the joy that can be found in even the most mundane moments.

In the first verse, Morrison sings, "I walked in my greatcoat down through the days of the leaves." This line sets the tone for the song, as he takes us on a journey through the seasons, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life. He continues, "We were shining our light into the days of blooming wonder," suggesting that there is a sense of awe and curiosity in the world around us. The "eternal presence" and "presence of the flame" allude to a spiritual connection and the idea that there is something greater at play.

The chorus repeats the question, "Oh, didn't I come to bring you a sense of wonder?" Here, Morrison is reminding us of the power of music and art to inspire and uplift. He wants to ignite our "fiery vision bright" and remind us of the wonder that exists within us. The flame symbolizes passion, creativity, and the spark of life.

In the second verse, Morrison references specific places and people, such as Newtonards and Comber, adding a personal touch to the song. He describes the leaves in rich detail, using colors like "red browney, half burnt orange, and green." This attention to detail highlights his ability to find beauty in the ordinary.

The bridge introduces a contrast between the ease of describing the leaves in autumn and spring, and the difficulty of finding wonder in the colder months. Morrison sings, "But down through January and February, it's a very different thing." This suggests that finding wonder and joy in the midst of hardship requires a deeper appreciation and effort.

In the final verse, Morrison reflects on the "winter of our discontent," a phrase borrowed from Shakespeare's Richard III. He acknowledges the challenges and hardships of life, but still believes in the power of love and philosophy to bring a sense of wonder. He sings, "You may call my love Sophia, but I call my love Philosophy," implying that love and wisdom are intertwined and can provide a deeper understanding of the world.

The song concludes with a nostalgic outro, mentioning various local references and experiences that evoke a sense of nostalgia and community. Morrison reminds us that wonder can be found in the simplest of things, from whistling on a street corner to enjoying traditional foods. The repetition of the phrase "A sense of wonder" reinforces the song's central message, that Morrison came to bring us this sense of awe and appreciation for life's beauty.

Overall, "A Sense of Wonder" is a heartfelt and introspective song that encourages listeners to find joy and wonder in the everyday moments of life. It reminds us to appreciate the changing seasons, the power of music, and the importance of love and philosophy in our journey towards a deeper understanding of the world.