Song meaning of Too Many Clues In This Room by Gordon Lightfoot

The song "Too Many Clues In This Room" by Gordon Lightfoot explores themes of confusion, deception, and the overwhelming nature of truth. The lyrics depict a room filled with numerous clues and hints, suggesting that the truth is obscured and difficult to untangle. The reference to the space shuttle ending where the subway begins and the tear on the moon's face symbolize the contrast between the vastness of the universe and the confined spaces of human existence.

The song metaphorically conveys the idea that society is caught in a complex web of lies and deceit. The lines "In times best forgot there was peace, there was not" hint at historical events that have been distorted or forgotten, emphasizing the manipulation of truth. The reference to the old sea man's chest and the crew throwing his balls to the sharks represents the betrayal and mistreatment of those who hold important knowledge or information.

The repetition of the bridge, particularly the lines "Sweeping out the house with a fine tooth comb, which history's shown leads to ruin," suggests that relentlessly searching and scrutinizing for answers can lead to destruction. It implies that the truth may be too difficult to uncover or that the consequences of knowing the truth may be catastrophic.

Overall, "Too Many Clues In This Room" speaks to the complexities of truth-seeking, the distortion of history, and the sense of being overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information and deception in the world. The song encourages listeners to reflect on the limitations of human knowledge and the potential risks associated with searching for truth.