“Wish You Were Here” Means More Than You Think
It’s not just Syd Barrett
Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” is a legendary song. It’s also deeper than most people think. The song inspires a sense of longing for someone, be they dead or far away. But there’s a piece that tugs on us even if we don’t have someone that we miss. Let’s dig into what makes this song legendary.
This is just my opinion. You’re free to interpret the song your own way.
First: Syd Barrett
No interpretation of this song is complete without its inspiration: Pink Floyd’s estranged bandmate Syd Barrett. He was ousted from the group in 1968 as drug abuse drove him from sanity. In fact, the whole album is about him.
It’s important to note that Syd Barrett was still alive during the creation of the album. In fact, Syd Barrett crashed one of Pink Floyd’s recording sessions. His haggard appearance had rendered him unrecognizable, and caused Roger Waters to break down into tears.
It’s important because it tells us that “Wish You Were Here” isn’t about death or distance. Instead, it’s a song about perception and change. It tells…