Blood, Sweat, and Tears - Spinning Wheel - Lyrics Meaning

The song "Spinning Wheel" was released in 1969 on the album, "Blood, Sweat, and Tears". It was written by David Clayton-Thomas. He had recorded the song with another band prior to Blood Sweat and Tears.

The Spinning Wheel in this song is Clayton-Thomas' way of saying that things always come full circle. In the first two verses, he says that it's a shame to become preoccupied with your problems. Whatever is troubling you, whether it is lack of money or homelessness, it will work itself out one way or another and it's just not worth getting upset over. "Ride a painted pony, let the spinning wheel spin" suggests a merry-go-round. He is telling you to just get on the ride and let it go. It will eventually stop.

The bridge is full of psychedelic imagery. While following the "straight and narrow highway", suggests moral integrity. The singer is questioning the listener about which direction he or she is headed and whether or not they are being directed a certain way. The reference to the reflecting sign could suggest that it's ok to deviate from the straight and narrow path sometimes. To let the reflecting sign "shine within your mind..." may also suggest psychedelics