By and Down the River
By and Down the River

A Perfect Circle - By and Down the River Lyrics

A mesmerizing journey through the human psyche, this masterpiece delves into the struggle of perception versus reality. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and searching for authenticity in a world often masked by pretense. The repeated phrase "searching your… Read more

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By and Down the River Music Video

By and Down the River Lyrics

Moving in and out of the shadow
It's no easy mission, holding on to how I picture you

Showing only bits and pieces
'Til the light betray you and your empty elocution

Searching your eyes for a hint or a trace of humility
Searching your eyes for the saint is an act of futility

Searching your eyes for a hint or a trace
I've been searching your eyes for humility
Searching your eyes for a hint or a trace
I'm still searching, searching

Showing only bits and pieces
'Til the tide betrays you and your empty elocution
Float the Piper by and down the river
Carcass crippled underneath the pounding waves of adoration

Pied Piper, float on down the river
Bloated carcass crippled 'neath the weight of adoration
Moving in and out of the shadow
It's no easy mission, holding on to how I picture you

Writer(s): Billy Howerdel, Maynard James Keenan
Copyright(s): Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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What is the Meaning of By and Down the River?

A mesmerizing journey through the human psyche, this masterpiece delves into the struggle of perception versus reality. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and searching for authenticity in a world often masked by pretense. The repeated phrase "searching your eyes" symbolizes the desperate quest for sincerity and humility in others. The 'Pied Piper' reference could represent an influential figure whose true nature is hidden beneath society's adoration, further emphasizing the theme of deception. The song also explores the difficulty of holding onto personal perceptions amidst ever-changing realities, represented by moving 'in and out of shadows'. Ultimately, it's a poignant commentary on our relentless search for truth in an often illusory world.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who are the writers of 'By and Down the River' by A Perfect Circle?

    'By and Down the River' was written by Billy Howerdel and Maynard James Keenan, the band's guitarist and lead vocalist respectively. Their collaboration has been a hallmark of A Perfect Circle's unique sound, blending intricate guitar work with dynamic vocal performances.

  2. When was 'By and Down the River' first performed live by A Perfect Circle?

    A Perfect Circle first debuted 'By and Down the River' live during their North American Summer tour in June 2011. The song had been part of their setlist well before its official studio release, allowing it to evolve through live performances.

  3. What album features 'By and Down the River'?

    'By and Down the River' is featured on A Perfect Circle's greatest hits album titled 'Three Sixty,' released on November 19, 2013. This album includes a collection of tracks from across their career as well as this new track, marking their first fresh output in nearly a decade at that time.

  4. How did 'By and Down the River' come about musically?

    The musical foundation for 'By and Down the River' originated from an impromptu piano session involving Billy Howerdel's three-year-old child. As Howerdel played along trying to guide his child's chaotic piano playing into something more melodic, the main melody for 'By and Down' emerged spontaneously.

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