Xavier Rudd – “Follow the Sun” Lyrics Meaning

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Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

“Follow the Sun” is a song that resonates with simplicity and depth. At its core, the song is about embracing the present, understanding the transient nature of life, and finding guidance in nature’s simplicity. Through his lyrics, Rudd encourages us to set our intentions, cherish each moment, and be guided by love and nature. The song reflects a desire to connect with the earth and find direction in its rhythms. It’s a call to remember our place in the larger scheme of things, to respect the past and to look forward to the future with hope and positivity.

Rudd interweaves themes of nature, love, time, and self-reflection. His lyrics are a gentle reminder to slow down, embrace the journey of life, and find guidance in the world around us. Keep reading to uncover the profound messages woven within.


“Follow the Sun” Lyrics Meaning

“Follow, follow the sun” – These opening words set the tone for the entire song. They suggest a journey, an endless pursuit of something bright and life-giving. The sun here symbolizes hope, guidance, and the passage of time. It’s a universal symbol that everyone can relate to, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

“And which way the wind blows / When this day is done” – Here, Rudd touches on the unpredictability of life. The wind represents change, the unknown factors that we all face. It’s an acceptance of life’s uncertainty coupled with a sense of peace in that uncertainty.

“Breath, breath in the air / Set your intentions / Dream with care” – This verse is a call to mindfulness. Rudd reminds us to be conscious of our present, intentions, and dreams. It’s about living deliberately, with thoughtfulness and care for our actions and their impacts.

“Tomorrow is a new day for everyone / A brand new moon, brand new sun” – These lines are imbued with optimism. Rudd highlights each day’s renewal, offering a fresh start to all. It’s a reminder that no matter what today holds, tomorrow promises a new beginning.

“So follow, follow the sun / The direction of the birds / The direction of love” – Here, Rudd connects nature with the concept of love. Following the sun, like birds do, is an analogy for following love in our lives. It’s about finding direction in the natural flow of things, in the simple, often overlooked patterns of the world.

“Cheerish this moment / Cheerish this breath” – Rudd emphasizes the importance of cherishing the present. It’s a call to appreciate the now, the very breath that sustains us, reminding us of life’s fleeting nature.

“When you feel love coming down on you / Like a heavy wave” – Love is described as overwhelming, yet welcoming. It’s a force that can engulf us, changing our perspective and guiding our actions.

“When you feel this crazy society / Headin’ to the strand” – These lines might be interpreted as a commentary on the chaotic nature of modern life. Rudd suggests stepping back, and reevaluating our place in a society that often seems to be heading in a direction away from nature and simplicity.

“Take a straw to the nearest waters / And remember your place” – This is a powerful call to humility and connection with nature. It’s about remembering our roots, our intrinsic link to the earth and its waters, which have witnessed countless generations before us.

“Many moons have risen and fallen long, long before youve came” – Here, Rudd touches on the ancient, cyclical nature of time and our relatively small place within it. It’s a humbling reminder that we are part of a larger story, one that stretches far beyond our individual lives.

“So which way is the wind blowin’ / And what does your heart say?” – The song concludes by bringing us back to its central themes: the unpredictability of life and the importance of listening to our hearts.

The Story Behind “Follow the Sun”

“Follow the Sun” reflects Rudd’s state of mind at the time – a search for simplicity, a desire to connect with the earth, and a longing to understand life’s deeper meanings. Rudd’s affinity for the natural world is evident throughout his music, but “Follow the Sun” is a particularly poignant expression of his philosophy. The song was born from a place of contemplation, a moment where Rudd sought to encapsulate the essence of living in harmony with the world around us.

The song’s message resonates with anyone seeking clarity and peace in a chaotic world. Through “Follow the Sun,” Rudd invites us to pause, reflect, and find our own path by following the natural rhythms of life.