Meaning of And so It Goes by Billy Joel

The Billy Joel song 'And So It Goes' is a poignant and introspective masterpiece that delves deep into the complexities of love, vulnerability, and the fear of getting hurt. The song's overarching theme lies in the cyclical nature of love and how past experiences shape our present approach to relationships. Throughout the song, Joel explores these themes through a series of standout lyrics that paint a vivid picture of love's triumphs and disappointments.One standout lyric in 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." This lyric speaks to the idea that each person carries a sanctuary within their heart, a place to heal from the scars left behind by past relationships. It suggests that even when we have been hurt before, we still hold onto hope for a new love to come along and fill that space.Another memorable lyric in the song is, "And every time I've held a rose, it seems I only felt the thorns." This line conveys the bittersweet nature of love, where joy and pain often coexist. It touches upon the idea that even in the midst of beauty and happiness, there is always a possibility of encountering pain. This lyric serves as a reminder that the risk of getting hurt is an inevitable part of opening oneself up to love.The line, "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," showcases the theme of vulnerability and the fear of losing someone due to a failure to express oneself. It underscores the importance of communication in relationships and the willingness to take the risk of getting hurt in order to truly connect with another person.Additionally, the lyric, "And this is why my eyes are closed, it's just as well for all I've seen," speaks to the weariness and caution that can arise from past experiences. It suggests that sometimes, closing one's eyes to the world and its complexities may be a defense mechanism against further pain. It highlights the tension between the desire to protect oneself and the longing for genuine connection.Lastly, the line, "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," delves into the idea of relinquishing control and surrendering to the uncertainties of love. It recognizes that while we might choose to be with someone, we cannot control their actions or decisions. It echoes the vulnerability expressed in previous lyrics and acknowledges that opening one's heart to love means allowing the possibility of it being broken.In conclusion, 'And So It Goes' is a song that beautifully encapsulates the complexities of love and the human experience. The various standout lyrics in the song serve to develop themes of hope, vulnerability, communication, weariness, and surrender. Each lyric adds another layer to the overarching theme of the cyclical nature of love and the impact of past experiences on present relationships. Billy Joel's introspective lyrics and heartfelt delivery make this song a timeless exploration of the human heart.