The Quiet Fire Of “Cleaning Windows” — Written About Working-Class Joy

April 1, 2025

The sun was just beginning to rise over the small town of Belfast, casting a golden glow on the streets where the smell of fresh bread wafted from bakeries. It was in this vibrant yet gritty atmosphere that musician Van Morrison found the inspiration for one of his most beloved songs, “Cleaning Windows.” He was a working-class kid, spending his days dreaming of music while listening to the hum of the city around him. The song wasn’t just about the act of cleaning; it was about the humble joy and dignity of everyday life.

As a young man, Van Morrison worked various jobs to make ends meet, including a stint as a window cleaner. With each pane he scrubbed, he felt a connection to the people living behind those closed curtains. Their lives were a mix of struggles and small victories, and he often wondered about their stories. The interactions with customers brought brief moments of laughter and camaraderie, and it was during those exchanges that Van discovered the power of sharing simple joys. The song captures both the hustle of the working class and the music that flowed within it, turning mundane chores into something magical.

“Cleaning Windows” became a celebration of the ordinary. Van wrote it with a rhythm that mirrored his own work-life: a little hard, a little fun. The lyrics painted vivid pictures of people coming together, not just to clean glass but to connect through laughter and stories. Each line felt personal, as if he was speaking directly to anyone who had ever worked hard for a living and found joy in the little things. The song resonated deeply with blue-collar workers everywhere, elevating their daily tasks into an anthem of pride and resilience.

As “Cleaning Windows” began to gain popularity, it marked a turning point in Van Morrison’s career. His unique style blended folk, blues, and rock, and this song showcased his ability to transform common experiences into heartfelt music. It brought him recognition, but more importantly, it kept him grounded. He never forgot the lessons learned on those ladders, capturing the essence of working-class life with every note he played. Each performance was a tribute to the people who inspired him, a reminder that joy could be found even in the most mundane chores.

Decades later, the song remains a favorite, echoing through time as a reminder that those who clean windows also dream of a brighter tomorrow. Van Morrison’s story is a testament to resilience—the idea that where you come from doesn’t define you, but rather the love and passion you put into your work does. He not only painted a picture of life through music but also celebrated the everyday heroes who find joy amidst struggle. For every listener, “Cleaning Windows” is a spark that ignites the quiet fire of hope, showing that inspiration can come from the simplest moments of life.

In the end, Van Morrison taught us that music could rise from the ashes of hard work and determination. From the sound of scrubbing brushes on glass to the laughter shared with neighbors, every note of “Cleaning Windows” reminds us to cherish our journeys. It’s a celebration of real life and the beauty that lies within the everyday, inspiring each of us to find joy and meaning in the work we do.