1 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

See the Same Way

See the Same Way meaning of the song

See the Same Way by Bruce Hornsby explores the complexities of perception, understanding, and the differences that arise between individuals in society. The song delves into themes of empathy, the human condition, and the struggles to find common ground amidst diverse viewpoints. Through a series of vignettes, Bruce invites listeners to reflect on their perspectives and encourages dialogue to bridge the gaps that often divide us.

Childhood innocence and disillusionment

The opening lines introduce a poignant image of a little girl and her relationship with a doll. The doll, “as white as snow,” represents an idealised version of herself, while her decision to throw it away signifies a rejection of superficiality and societal expectations. This juxtaposition highlights the theme of innocence lost, as the girl grapples with the complexities of identity and self-worth. The act of discarding the doll suggests a desire for authenticity over conformity.

Cultural commentary

The contrast between the girl’s innocent perception and the harsh realities of adult life is underscored in the subsequent verses. The imagery of a courtroom filled with “armchair experts” serves as a critique of judgement and societal norms. This setting reflects the often one-dimensional views people hold when evaluating others’ actions, emphasising the need for deeper understanding.

Empathy and perspective

Bruce contrasts the perspectives of different individuals throughout the song. One man sees a “healer doing such good, good things,” while another views the same person as a “sinner by the Holy Sea”. This duality echoes the tension between compassion and judgement that pervades many aspects of human interaction. The mention of Jesus and the Pharisees serves as a cultural reference, illustrating historical conflicts over morality and belief.

Seeing eye to eye

“Do you see what I see today?” underscores the longing for mutual understanding and empathy. Bruce encourages listeners to engage in dialogue and recognise the differences in perception that exist. This call to “open our eyes” reflects a desire for a more compassionate society, where individuals can acknowledge and respect diverse viewpoints.

The quest for common ground

The song continues to explore various perspectives, highlighting how people can interpret the same situation differently. For instance, one man perceives a peaceful gathering of a million men, while another sees only a lack of productivity and humour. This contrast emphasises how subjective experiences shape our understanding of the world, often leading to misunderstandings and conflict.

Words as weapons

The line “Might just make you feel good, but you never know who you hurt with your words” serves as a reminder of the power of language. Bruce warns of the potential consequences of our expressions, urging caution and mindfulness in our interactions. This reflection on the impact of words adds another layer to the theme of empathy and the importance of thoughtful communication.

Conspiracy and paranoia

The imagery of a man playing G.I. Joe and preparing for a “promised war” introduces themes of fear and conspiracy. This reference highlights how individuals often seek to externalise blame for their insecurities and struggles. Bruce suggests that opening oneself up to love and understanding can help dispel these fears and promote healing.

The meeting and unity

The repeated desire to “be at the meeting” reflects a yearning for community and shared understanding. Bruce expresses hope that, despite our differences, we can come together to “see the same way.” This message of unity is a powerful conclusion to the song, reinforcing the idea that collective empathy and communication can lead to a more harmonious existence.

Concluding thoughts

See the Same Way” by Bruce Hornsby serves as a profound exploration of perception, empathy, and the complexities of human relationships. Through vivid imagery and relatable themes, Bruce invites listeners to reflect on their perspectives and the importance of understanding one another. The song’s call for open dialogue and mutual respect resonates deeply, encouraging a more compassionate society where individuals strive to “see the same way.”


Your further thoughts

(See the Same Way reviewed with Pete and Manny).

Here are two songs which have two different styles, yet make a similar, pervasive point about the human condition, which is not restricted to any one time or place. See the Same Way is a song using serious examples: (V1:a girl contrasting two toy dolls, one black, one white; V2: a courtroom episode; V3: the life and works of Jesus Christ; V4: not sure – possibly a queue for welfare money? V5: A young soldier in (ultimately futile) training for the “promised war”).

It’s a song all about perceptions, and how one small situation can provoke many different perceptions – many of which are conditioned by political or social prejudice. In the chorus, Hornsby offers an open hand to us all, to “Talk about the difference / Find out what’s in the way / Open our eyes / See the same way”. We sure need more of Bruce’s warm-hearted views in Europe at the moment, where the tide of prejudice and hatred against an easy target – war refugees from Kosovo – is stirred by politicians and the media.

Pete and Manny makes a similar point, but in a totally different way. Here we have the classic scene of schoolyard banter towards those with a different interest or hobby from the rest. I’m sure that most of us, without question, can remember a similar situation. I know that I was guilty of it, but as a busking harpist I can sure tell you that I have been on the receiving end of mockery from “the lads” as well! On a more philosophical note, I love the chorus of Pete and Manny for two reasons:

“Round and round and round it goes, where it stops no one knows”

First, it’s a sort of warning shot for listeners who think they have got everything sorted. Don’t count on it. Moreover, someone who you have been mocking all this time may be much smarter than you think. Second, but more positively, if your down on your luck then things will soon come round again.

Carwyn Fowler

Download:

mp3  See the Same Way
» 6.1 MiB - 1,893 downloads
Asheville, NC
August 11 2011


Chad follows up: This song relates back to The Way It Is, in that it specifically refers to historic events, like the 1964 Civil Rights Act (“They passed a law in ’64 to give those who ain’t got a little more”). See the Same Way is just as historically profound. From what I can gather…

The first verse, the girl and the dolls, refers to the doll studies that formed the basis of the Brown v. Board of Education desegregation Supreme Court decision. In that case, which ended school segregation, the plaintiffs presented evidence of black children who would say that they felt the white dolls were good, pretty and the most like them, while the black dolls were bad and ugly. This was the evidence of the harmful effect of desegregation.

The courtroom verse is a clear reference to the O.J. Simpson case, where the black population tended towards seeing O.J. as another black victim of a corrupt justice system, while most whites saw him as a murderer.

The third verse is a religious reference which is lost on me, I am sad to say.

The fourth verse is actually a reiteration of the verse for The Way It Is, which talks about a cynical rich person telling a poor person to “get a job”. This verse against touches upon economic disparity and, what clearly is a view on the insensitivity of the rich towards the poor.

The final verse is about the recent surge in the U.S. “militia” movement (“Soldiers waiting on a coming war”). Bruce talks about the distrust many of their members have for the government and how many of the groups, who frequently isolate themselves from mainstream society, have a tendency to blame their own problems on others. The verse suggests that they would be well served, rather than viewing the world with distrust and anger, to “open up and love a little more.”

Just some thoughts.

Chad Marlow

See the Same Way - Two children reaching an agreement
See the Same Way