Song meaning of Born Cross-Eyed by The Grateful Dead

The song "Born Cross-Eyed" by The Grateful Dead is filled with abstract and surreal imagery, making it difficult to pinpoint a specific meaning. However, it seems to convey a sense of confusion and transcendence.

The repetition of "goodbye" throughout the song suggests a sense of detachment from the world. The lyrics imply that the singer has been in a similar state before, hinting at a cyclical nature of their experiences. Instead of dwelling on sadness or emotional distress ("I don't want to see anybody cry"), the singer asks to meet in a better place, symbolized by the phrase "in the sweet by and by."

The second verse introduces a "song coming on," which could be a metaphor for an enlightening experience or revelation. The phrase "you don't have to tell me why" suggests an acceptance of the unknown and a willingness to embrace the mysticism of life.

In the third verse, the singer acknowledges being different from others ("It ain't 'cause I'm the only one left"). They mention feeling groovy and looking fine, indicating a contentment with their unique perspective. The references to coming back "from time to time" and admiring the beauty of their surroundings suggest a cyclical journey of self-discovery.

The song concludes with the repetition of the phrase "meet you some morning, in the sweet by and by," reinforcing the idea of seeking a better place or state of being.

Overall, "Born Cross-Eyed" seems to convey acceptance of the uncertainties in life and a desire to transcend worldly limitations, embracing a more surreal and transcendental existence.