The Moody Blues are an English rock band formed in Birmingham in 1964. They are known for their progressive rock sound and the haunting lyrics that accompany it. One of their most famous songs is “Ride My See Saw”, which was released in 1968. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of this classic song.
Verse 1
The song starts with the lines “Ride, ride my see saw, take this place on this trip just for me”. These lyrics create a sense of movement and anticipation, as if the singer is urging the listener to come along on a journey with them. The use of the phrase “just for me” suggests that this is a personal, individual experience.
The second line of the verse is “Ride, take a free ride, take my place, have my seat, it’s for free”. This line reinforces the idea of a journey, but also introduces the idea of generosity. The singer is offering their seat to the listener, inviting them to join in on the experience without any cost or obligation.
Chorus
The chorus of the song is short and repetitive, with the lines “Ride, ride my see saw, take this place on this trip just for me, ride, take a free ride, take my place, have my seat, it’s for free”. This repetition reinforces the idea of a journey, and the use of the word “free” emphasizes the generosity and openness of the singer.
Verse 2
The second verse of the song starts with the lines “I’m your operator, you can call anytime, I’ll be your connection to the party line”. These lyrics suggest that the singer is not just inviting the listener on a journey, but is also offering them a connection to something larger and more exciting.
The second line of the verse is “All those party people, they’re in a tight spot, don’t seem to mind that they’re all thinking it’s hot”. This line introduces the idea of a party, and suggests that the people at this party are not concerned with the constraints of their situation. They are enjoying themselves despite any difficulties or limitations.
Chorus
Again, the chorus is repeated, emphasizing the themes of journey and generosity.
Verse 3
The third verse starts with the lines “Ride, easy rider, they’ve taken skies, the colors change from green to red to sky”. These lyrics suggest a change or transformation, and create a sense of wonder and excitement.
The second line of the verse is “Ride, captain, ride, upon your mystery ship, be amazed at the friends you have here on your trip”. This line introduces the idea of a mystery ship, and suggests that the listener is not alone on their journey. They have friends and companions with them, and are part of something larger than themselves.
Chorus
The chorus is repeated again, bringing the song to a close and emphasizing the central themes of journey and generosity.
Conclusion
“Ride My See Saw” is a classic rock song with haunting lyrics that create a sense of movement, transformation, and wonder. The repetition of the chorus and the use of the word “free” emphasize the generosity and openness of the singer, inviting the listener to join them on a journey without any cost or obligation. The references to a party, a mystery ship, and friends on the journey suggest that this is not just a personal, individual experience, but something larger and more exciting. Overall, “Ride My See Saw” is a powerful song that continues to resonate with listeners today.
