About the song
Background:
- Released in 1984 (though singles came out in 1985)
- Not as commercially successful as some of Seger’s other work, but a fan favorite
- Genre: Classic Rock
Themes:
- Personal Growth: The song explores the journey of gaining understanding about oneself and the world. The lyrics describe a transformation from feeling lost and alone to a newfound sense of clarity.
- The Power of Connection: The song suggests that this understanding is sparked by a significant relationship (“the day you came along”). This person’s love and support create a sense of safety that allows the narrator to open up and learn.
- Openness to Experience: The lyrics talk about a shift from “only the things I wanted to hear” to a willingness to see the world in a new light. This newfound understanding comes from being receptive to different perspectives.
- Hope and Optimism: Despite the struggles of the past, the song ends on a hopeful note. The narrator feels empowered by their newfound understanding and the potential for future growth.
Video
Lyrics
It seems like only yesterdayI didn’t have a clueI stood alone not knowing where to turnNow suddenly I look aroundAnd everything looks newI don’t know why but I think I’m starting to learn
They call it understandingUnderstandingA willingness to growI’m finally understandingUnderstandingThere’s so much I could know
Until the day you came alongI used to just get lostI only heard the things I wanted to hearIt always seemed like no caredThen you took the timeAnd now I look and everything seems clear
You’ve got me understandingUnderstandingYou’ve really helped me seeI’m finally understandingUnderstandingIt’s meant so much to meYou’ve got me understandingUnderstanding
You’ve given me some prideI’m finally understandingYou’re really on my sideReally on my sideGot me understandingUnderstanding
UnderstandingYou’ve got me understandingUnderstandingUnderstandingYou’ve got me understanding
For the first timeYou’ve got me understandingYou’ve got me understanding
Understanding…