| | | | | | | | David Cook Album Discussion Forums - Talk About The New Single, Upcoming Album, & Chart Rankings Here.

[Daniel B]

Ok, so first off I'm new here, and hopefully this is the right place to post this...

To place this in context I'm a male hard rock fan who typically doesn't much care for American Idol albums (with the exception of Daughtry which was excellent). Yet I find myself obsessed with the softest song on the album, and even though I'm a good singer and the vocals aren't that difficult I cannot sing this song because it literally emotionally is too powerful and I'm left in tears every single time (I can get to the line "oh god is there some way for me to take his place" and I lose it). I'm not the crying type, believe me, but this song just wrenches me.

Ironically it's not my favorite song off the album (that would be Lie, followed closely by Declaration and Come Back to Me), yet I am left stunned by the raw emotional brilliance of this beautiful piece of art, and I can't stop thinking about this song (maybe overthinking it). I wanted to share my opinion/interpretation and see if anyone agrees, disagrees, or gets something completely different out of this than I do.

First, this song is deeply, deeply personal. I'm a little in awe of how completely emotionally honest this song is, and I can't think of another song where the artist has so courageously and unflinchingly shared something so intimate, personal and painful. I don't think 'Permanent' would make for a good radio single (at least not one of the early singles) as it is beautiful and evocative but only makes sense in the context of knowing who David Cook is and about Adam's illness, etc. So I doubt that someone who doesn't know who David is and who randomly hears this song on the radio would really 'get' it.

I've been trying to nail down exactly why this song affects me so strongly, and here's what I've come up with so far (see if you agree or disagree):

"Is this the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my broken promise that you’ll never see me cry"

This is the setup for everything that comes before, and foreshadowing for the ending. The beautiful, unrushed and spare piano accompanying sets a stark but pretty canvas on which David's voice comes through clearly, allowing every nuance of emotion to shine through, and obviously is the perfect counterpoint to accent David's vocals as they will soar unrestrained as the song progresses. But of course this song isn't about his vocals at all - the fact that they are oustanding is simply a natural consequence of the purity of the truth and emotion he is channeling. These first words are quiet, thoughtful, self-reflecting and filled with pain.

"And everything, it will surely change even if I tell you I won’t go away today
Will you think that you’re all alone
When no one’s there to hold your hand?"

This part of the song just evokes for me the image of David completely torn. On the one hand the world has opened up for him, his greatest dreams are becoming a reality, and the world is rightly celebrating his artistry, but on the other he will be pulled physically away from his brother's side by the demands of this newfound success - touring, playing dates all over the world, but nevertheless there is this deep resonating pain over the thought that with all of these good things he is still so conflicted about not being able to stay with his brother as much as he would like. In fact it almost sounds like he's saying if his brother asked he would stay anyway, but that as a grown up person he knows that whether he is able to stay in the short term eventually life will intercede and he will have to go.

"And all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary rest your head
I’m permanent"

Almost a plea and a reassurance at the same time, filled with anguish but love at the same time. As if to say "please know that you are in my heart always, whether I can be here or not, and that regardless of temporary distractions my love for you is abiding and permanent"


"I know he’s living in hell every single day
And so I ask oh god is there some way for me to take his place"

The words speak far more eloquently than I can, but this for me is one of the powerful lines of the song. Maybe I'm allergic, but for some reason my eyes get watery at this point

But seriously, look at the beautiful sentiment expressed here: He's not asking for it to just go away, he's making an earnest plea that if this must happen to someone, to let it happen to him and not to his brother. And these are not just words; you can honestly feel that he means it with every ounce of his soul.

"And when they say it’s all touch and go I wish I could make it go away"

Filled with pain and feeling helpless in the face of his brother's illness, this line isn't just a continuation of the theme before, it betrays the inner demons that David is wrestling with in this whole situation, and that is pivotal to what comes next, which is I think the most brilliant and heart-wrenching aspect of the song:


"But still you say
Will you think that you’re all alone when no one’s there to hold your hand?
When all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary, rest your head
I’m permanent"

Notice that the voice changes on the line "but still you say" - maybe I'm crazy but I think this is no longer David talking, but rather Adam talking back to David, using the exact same words, in a total reverse, as if Adam is now conversely trying to comfort his brother (and the nobleness of spirit and pure love one brother can have for another just absolutely wrenches me and rings so true). It's as if Adam has seen the pain and helplessness David is wrestling with and ignoring his own suffering is reaching out to comfort his brother, to reassure his brother that even if he is torn away and no longer there to physically hold his brother's hand that the love will endure no matter what distances in space and time may be forced on the two brothers by things neither of them can control.

"I’m permanent"

An affirmation of the love the two brothers and their family share and that nothing in this universe or any other will ever sunder that, no matter what.

"Is the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my promise that you’ll never see me cry"

Again the lyrics speak for themselves here far more eloquently than I ever could (true throughout the whole song, and I hope I haven't cheapened how exquisite and deep this song is by my ramblings). I'm left physically shaken by the end of the song, so much emotion is channeled through David's voice and this spare, beautiful arrangement.

And then, even as the song ends, the brilliance of this piece just continues, as the next song in the album is the perfect counterpoint, and thematically it is a natural progression as 'A Daily AntheM' picks right up where this song leaves off with a joyful anthemic tribute to life, love, rising up and overcoming, and which is also of course about his brother and celebrating the life and love that family shares. David takes us on an emotional rollercoaster on 'Permanent' then soars into 'A Daily AntheM'. Both songs are perfectly placed for the end of the album, and as brilliant as 'Permanent' is, following it with 'A Daily AntheM' is inspired.

So, sorry for the really really ridiculously long post, but I have been thinking about this for a while and I just wanted to get some opinions from other fans of David Cook (and this forum seemed like a good place to find a few fans of Cook )

- Daniel

[amor825]

Notice that the voice changes on the line "but still you say" - maybe I'm crazy but I think this is no longer David talking, but rather Adam talking back to David, using the exact same words, in a total reverse, as if Adam is now conversely trying to comfort his brother (and the nobleness of spirit and pure love one brother can have for another just absolutely wrenches me and rings so true). It's as if Adam has seen the pain and helplessness David is wrestling with and ignoring his own suffering is reaching out to comfort his brother, to reassure his brother that even if he is torn away and no longer there to physically hold his brother's hand that the love will endure no matter what distances in space and time may be forced on the two brothers by things neither of them can control.

"I’m permanent"

An affirmation of the love the two brothers and their family share and that nothing in this universe or any other will ever sunder that, no matter what.

"Is the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my promise that you’ll never see me cry"

That makes so much sense. I've been thinking too why he used the words "but still you say."

Good analysis.

"Permanent" is really my favorite from the album. I think when he gets tired of the rock persona, David could make serious money as a balladeer. And he is a good songwriter.

As for Permanent, I'd argue that it's not totally impossible for that song to place high on the charts. I think the melody is super, and the words are universal. Plus, who is not connected to the internet nowadays? Those who listen to anything would hook up to the net, and almost everybody mentions Adam in connection to David. So they would understand the lyrics. Sometimes I even think that its a publicity stunt from some people, not even connected to David. But the Adam connection exists, for good or ill. And with or without the Adam connection, the singing just gets to you. It is a vocal masterpiece.

As an avid David Cook fan, I hope the best for him. But as a long time music listener, I would venture to predict that Permanent will surprise a lot of people.

[nihow]

Thank you Daniel for your insight.

[emily_pebbily]

I've never thought of it as Adam singing back to David before. That is so touching to think about. The next time I listen to that song I'm going to be crying everywhere *runs to find a kleenex box*

[SACougar]

[quote name='Daniel B' date='Nov 24 2008, 02:18 AM' post='522163']
Ok, so first off I'm new here, and hopefully this is the right place to post this...



Filled with pain and feeling helpless in the face of his brother's illness, this line isn't just a continuation of the theme before, it betrays the inner demons that David is wrestling with in this whole situation, and that is pivotal to what comes next, which is I think the most brilliant and heart-wrenching aspect of the song:


"But still you say
Will you think that you’re all alone when no one’s there to hold your hand?
When all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary, rest your head
I’m permanent"

Notice that the voice changes on the line "but still you say" - maybe I'm crazy but I think this is no longer David talking, but rather Adam talking back to David, using the exact same words, in a total reverse, as if Adam is now conversely trying to comfort his brother (and the nobleness of spirit and pure love one brother can have for another just absolutely wrenches me and rings so true). It's as if Adam has seen the pain and helplessness David is wrestling with and ignoring his own suffering is reaching out to comfort his brother, to reassure his brother that even if he is torn away and no longer there to physically hold his brother's hand that the love will endure no matter what distances in space and time may be forced on the two brothers by things neither of them can control.


Thank you Daniel for speaking out what I have also seen in this song. It's this line "But still you say" which totally killed me the first time I heard it and I still cannot listen to it without tearing up (even now while I'm writing this).
I am not new to this board but haven't posted much yet but I want to let you know that I don't think you are crazy seeing it like that. Your whole post is great (will study it in more detail now but had to get this out) - and yes, I also love Lie...

[audrey]

It is so interesting to read your interpretations as those are my feelings exactly, especially at the particular line, I always find myself in tears. I think this is a marvellous piece of writing. Something that can evoke emotion in so many people and even without knowing the circumstances, which many do not, is mindboggling. He is a wonderful lyrics writer and poet and I love the entire album. After listening to Avalanche this week and On the Moon I have fallen in love with these two also. Lie, Come Back to Me, Bar ba Sol, Heroes, The ADAM anthem, all of them are superb in their own rights

[CDHero]

It's as if Adam is now conversely trying to comfort his brother (and the nobleness of spirit and pure love one brother can have for another just absolutely wrenches me and rings so true). It's as if Adam has seen the pain and helplessness David is wrestling with and ignoring his own suffering is reaching out to comfort his brother, to reassure his brother that even if he is torn away and no longer there to physically hold his brother's hand that the love will endure no matter what distances in space and time may be forced on the two brothers by things neither of them can control.

"I’m permanent"

An affirmation of the love the two brothers and their family share and that nothing in this universe or any other will ever sunder that, no matter what.

Thanks for your thoughtful post.
David is all about love, and the ways that he expresses it as an artist are amazing. The insight he has gained in his relationship with Adam is beyond what most people ever reach in their lifetime, and he is only 25. I agree that this is a give and take dialogue between them and it will always be a reminder of their relationship. This song can be an inspiration to enjoy each day and show your love to your family, often and out loud.

[aimz]

i love your post. thank you for sharing. i, too, think of adam when hearing this song.

[Grandmajoyce]

Daniel, thank you for this. Now that I read your interpretation the song makes perfect sense. I thought it was about Adam but now As I read your thoughts I am sure of it.

It is a heart wrenching song that gives me chills.

Thank you for this.

[beachbum0522]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on Permanent. It adds a new perspective on it.

[cuckoo4cookie]

Daniel, what a beautiful and thoughtful analysis of that song.
Your words made me cry.

[lesliejay]

Now you've gone and made *me* cry! Beautiful analysis. I just love hearing the views of people who listen to the songs and get a different understanding of the words and you obviously see something other than the literal words on the page. I think you've seen something extraordinarily beautiful in this gorgeous song and I thank you for sharing your interpretation. I hadn't thought of Adam turning around and singing to David to comfort him. And I also believe, like you do, that David would literally take Adam's place if he could.

[LadyBirdSF]

Thank you Daniel

so much for your deep analysis of the most touching song ever written! Your thoughtful words made me tearing. This song is almost too heart wrenching to listen. It touches one so deeply.

I must say I cry from the beginning of the song till the end. It`s all about that deep emotion and love and helplessness
David pours into that beautiful song with his amazing voice. I think he is the most talented and versatile singer and song writer right now. And as "CDHero" said, he is only 25 (almost 26)! That`s amazing!

I have thought what it is in David, that makes people fall in love with him, especially women. Maybe it all is just seen in that extraordinary song: his ability to turn his deepest feelings into most beautiful lyrics and music and to perform them
so emotionally, open and honest with his unique voice. It`s rare.

~LadyBirdSF~

[movin2thabeet]

Daniel, I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your insight on the song Permanent and where it took you. I, too, found the turn of the song in "and still you say" to be incredibly moving and important in this song. It turned the song from simply being about David's viewpoint to one of both he and his brother, both reaching for a deeper expression of their love for each other as a result of their individual sufferings.

And thank you for that observation about the relevance of following that song with 'A Daily Anthem'. Yes! Life affirming, inviting listeners to "hold on to anything at all" and sing along "at the top of your lungs".

Daniel, I hope you'll continue to hang around here and share your voice in this community.

[john_socal]

Great analysis. I love music that evokes emotion and Permanent is a masterpiece. I can't wait to hear him sing it live - the whole house will be in tears. Daniel, get your hands on his pre-idol cds. You'll be stunned what you find there.

[cookieisacutie]

Daniel, I am openly crying after reading your analysis of Permanent. This song touches my soul, but even more so now after reading what you have written. I, too, felt that at one point Adam was speaking to David. I find it very hard to listen to this song and hear the anguish and raw emotion coming from this brilliant man and artist, David Cook. It totally wears me out emotionally each time I listen to it...but, as you so brilliantly stated, A Daily AntheM brings me back up to a happier place. I had not thought about the placement of these songs on the album...thanks to you, it now makes perfect sense. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I will think of your words each time I listen to Permanent and A Daily AntheM.

[ladynsearch]

Thank you Daniel for that heart wrenching interpretation.
I am ashamed and never wanted to admit, that I could not cry when I heard Permanent.
Oddly, very oddly.
I have cried over songs by David and David's voice, for many different reasons, suddenly and without warning.
I wanted to feel what David felt for his brother, but I could not get the empathy down.
I felt terrible that I could not cry. I could well up, but my feeling just would not come.
And I felt really bad about this. I felt like I was shallow toward David who I love so much. He and his voice and music mean so much to me.
Maybe because everyone else said they cried, including David and the band, that it well like constipated my emotions on this. I expected to cry but did not could not.
I thought about when my mother was dying and relating the song to that situation, then the tears came. But not for David.
But hear and now, hearing your interpretation, well the tears just starting flowing realizing the torment that David was/is going through being away from his brother.
Thank you. Really for expressing the song as it seems David intended.
Also I think the way you explained when David says, "But still you say
Will you think that you’re all alone when no one’s there to hold your hand?
When all you know seems so far away and everything is temporary, rest your head
I’m permanent" makes perfect sense. That it is now Adam speaking. I kept thinking it didn't make sense.
I think I only have one more thing to add more to David's statement" I'm Permanent." and the idea with this
"And everything, it will surely change even if I tell you I won’t go away today. Will you think that you’re all alone When no one’s there to hold your hand?"
You I agree with the love is permanent idea. I want to add that I also feel it means he will always be there for his brother. He is not alone. I mean besides the infinite love and brotherhood bond. That he would come running if need be.
Thanks again for the finally flowing tears. I hope though I can cry with the song as well.
But at least you socked it to me.
Vicki

[sweetsurender]

Think of heaven and earth situation...ohhhhh god,my heart breaks..daniel thank you sooo mch for your amazing words.I cried the first time ive heard PERMANENT from snippet and im crying even more now..Davids music is my life and i mean it.

[Daniel B]

Thank you all for the kind and welcoming words. I have been obsessed with understanding (again, probably overthinking) this beautiful song since the first time I heard it, and it is an emotionally painful song to hear every single time. I would never want to put words into David's mouth, really this is just what *I* get out of the song, and why it affects me so strongly. (well, actually it's just a small piece of why it affects me so strongly; I'm still trying to figure the rest out). I'm just glad my thoughts didn't seem to offend anyone, as I imagine this song must be an intensely personal and unique experience for anyone who appreciates it as much as we all obviously do.

Just reading the many wonderful responses here has actually deepened my appreciation for this song and made me aware of even more subtle nuances to its meaning.

Vicki, since you ask, I completely agree with you:

"I want to add that I also feel it means he will always be there for his brother. He is not alone. I mean besides the infinite love and brotherhood bond. That he would come running if need be. "

I have no idea what sort of religious beliefs David may or may not have (though honestly with a song like this I would find it difficult to believe he's not a deeply spiritual person), but I picture Adam trying to comfort his brother with a sentiment along the lines of something like this:

"I can bear this. I don't want this and it isn't easy and I may be torn from you physically, but I can bear this. What I cannot bear is the thought that you will suffer so terribly thinking you are all alone if I am physically taken from you, and just know that it my heart is with you now and forever - permanently. And I am a permanent being, and the love and the bond between us is permanent. If I am taken from you, it will only be my body that is gone, never my heart. And even if I am physically unable to hold your hand, I am still here for you, always."

John, thanks for the advice - believe me, I'm trying to get my hands on the pre-idol stuff!

Ladybird, regarding your statement:

"I have thought what it is in David, that makes people fall in love with him, especially women."

Well, I'm certainly not 'in love' with the guy, lol, so I don't think I would go that far (I'm pretty certain I'm only wired to fall in love with women But I think I know what you mean. David is such a great guy and a kind soul. One of the things I most admired about him on Idol was his huge heart, and I mean that both in the sense that he always seemed so humble and truly caring about the feelings of others, and also in the sense that this guy had good old fashioned all-american work ethic and the ability to get back up on his feet even when he'd been knocked down (which Simon and company certainly were all too willing to do). I think he would be a stellar example for kids today to emulate. And also, I kinda *do* love the guy (not in the way some of you gals on here do though ) ; he seems like a genuinely likeable and nice person, which makes a real change. Most artists with his brilliance are usually total jerks, but he is just the opposite.

Wait, I take back that last part. There *are* no artists with his brilliance. He's one of a kind

[sudoku]

This is a great thread. I'm going to come back and read it all soon.