Meaning of And so it goes by Billy Joel

"And so it goes" by Billy Joel is a deeply introspective song that delves into the complexities of love, vulnerability, and the consequences of silence. It presents a melancholic view of relationships, highlighting the often fragile nature of emotional connections and the defenses we put up to protect ourselves.One standout lyric that sets the tone for the song is "In every heart there is a room, a sanctuary safe and strong, to heal the wounds from lovers past until a new one comes along." Here, Joel introduces the concept of a heart as a room, a sacred space within us where we process the scars from previous relationships. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the importance of introspection and healing before opening oneself up to new love. It suggests that without addressing our past traumas, we risk carrying them into future relationships, possibly hindering our ability to fully connect with someone new.Continuing along this thread, Joel sings, "I spoke to you in cautious tones, you answered me with no pretense, and still, I feel I said too much. My silence is my self-defense." This lyric explores the intricate dance of vulnerability and how it can be hindered by fear. It touches on the idea that sometimes, even when we find someone who is open and genuine, we struggle to reciprocate that vulnerability due to our own insecurities. The theme that arises is the fear of rejection and the walls we build to protect ourselves from potential heartbreak. Joel suggests that silence can be both a defense mechanism and a source of regret, hinting at the desire to break down these self-imposed barriers to create a more authentic connection.Another poignant line in the song is "But if my silence made you leave, then that would be my worst mistake. So, I will share this room with you, and you can have this heart to break." This lyric explores the inevitable risk involved in love. It speaks to the fear of losing someone because of our inability to express ourselves fully. The theme that emerges is the willingness to take emotional risks, even if it means exposing ourselves to the possibility of heartbreak. It highlights the idea that opening our hearts to another person is an act of vulnerability and trust, and that love cannot flourish without taking such risks.Joel conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance with the line "And this is why my eyes are closed, it's just as well for all I've seen." Here, he touches on the weariness that can come from past heartaches and the desire to shield oneself from future pain. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the idea that past experiences can shape our views and behaviors. It suggests that by closing our eyes, we protect ourselves from potential hurt, but at the same time, we might miss out on new experiences and connections.The song concludes with the powerful lines "So, I would choose to be with you, that's if the choice were mine to make. But you can make decisions too, and you can have this heart to break." This final lyric encapsulates the overarching theme of the song: the understanding that love is a mutual agreement, and both parties have the power to either nurture or shatter the connection. It emphasizes that while we can do our part to cultivate love, we cannot control the choices and actions of others. This theme underscores the notion that love requires a delicate balance of vulnerability, trust, and individual agency.Overall, "And so it goes" provides a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of love, the walls we build to protect ourselves, and the risks we take to connect with others. Through its introspective lyrics, the song exposes the fragility of relationships and the choices we make that can either nurture or break our hearts. Billy Joel's poignant words encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences and consider the delicate balance between vulnerability, self-preservation, and the pursuit of meaningful connections.