Free Fallin'
by Tom Petty
What is “Free Fallin'” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Tom Petty's 'Free Fallin'' is a vivid portrait of a man reflecting on his past relationships and personal growth, using Southern California as a backdrop to explore themes of freedom, remorse, and yearning.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'Free Fallin',' Tom Petty crafts a narrative revolving around a character who enjoys the freedom of living without attachments but simultaneously regrets the emotional pain he has caused. The lyrics contrast idyllic suburban images with the protagonist's desire to 'write her name in the sky,' symbolizing his yearning for redemption and a deeper connection he once shunned. This song resonates deeply with themes of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of freedom. The repetitive and soaring chorus suggests a continuous and perhaps endless search for meaning and reconciliation within oneself, amplified by the metaphor of 'free fallin'' which implies both exhilaration and an uncontrollable descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What inspired Tom Petty to write 'Free Fallin''?
Tom Petty was inspired to write 'Free Fallin'' during a recording session while playing chords on the guitar and reflecting on the dichotomy of life in Los Angeles.
Q: What is the song 'Free Fallin'' about?
The song explores themes of freedom, regret, and longing as the protagonist reflects on past relationships and life decisions, set against the backdrop of life in Southern California.
Lyrics to “Free Fallin'”
88 ContributorsTranslations
[Post-Chorus]
(Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
(Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
[Bridge]
I wanna glide down over Mulholland
I wanna write her name in the sky
I'm gonna free fall out into nothin'
Gonna leave this world for a while
[Chorus]
Now I'm free (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Free fallin' (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Yeah, I'm free (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Free fallin' (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
[Outro]
(Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Yeah, I'm free
Free fallin'
Oh
(Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Free fallin' (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
I'm free (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Oh, free fallin' (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
(Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)
Free fallin' (Free fallin', I'm-a free fallin', I'm-a)