The Whole Of The Moon

The Waterboys' song 'The Whole Of The Moon' is a poetic exploration of the contrast between two different perspectives on life and ambition. The lyrics, written by the band's lead singer Mike Scott, juxtapose the narrator's more limited and cautious viewpoint with that of another person who sees and experiences life in its fullest, most vibrant form. The song uses rich imagery and metaphors to convey a sense of awe and perhaps a tinge of envy towards the person who 'saw the whole of the Moon.'

The repeated contrasts throughout the song ('I saw the crescent/You saw the whole of the Moon') highlight the difference between someone who is content with a partial understanding or experience and someone who strives for the complete picture, regardless of the risks. The person described in the song is fearless and ambitious, reaching for the stars and dreaming big, while the narrator seems to have been more reserved and grounded. This dynamic creates a sense of admiration for the person who dares to dream and achieve beyond the ordinary.

The song also touches on themes of regret and realization. The narrator reflects on their own limitations and missed opportunities in light of the other person's achievements. The use of grandiose imagery ('unicorns and cannonballs, palaces and piers') suggests a world of endless possibilities that the other person has embraced. 'The Whole Of The Moon' is a tribute to those who live life to the fullest, and a reflection on the nature of human aspiration and the courage it takes to pursue one's dreams.