Meaning of Life Goes On by Echo & the Bunnymen

In their iconic song "Life Goes On," Echo & the Bunnymen delve into the existential struggle of navigating life and the inevitability of change. This hauntingly beautiful ballad captures the essence of human existence, emphasizing the constant, cyclical nature of life and the emotional ups and downs that come along with it.The song opens with the plea, "How do you stop yourself from falling apart and going under?" This line immediately sets the tone for the overarching theme of the song – the struggle to maintain one's composure and avoid succumbing to the challenges that life throws our way. It speaks to the vulnerability and fragility of the human experience, as we try to find stability in an ever-changing world.As the lyrics progress, the band delves deeper into the concept of life's relentless march forward. "One by one they will find you, life goes on behind you," paints a vivid picture of the moments slipping away unnoticed as time continues to move forward. This line serves as a reminder to seize the present and appreciate every passing second because life continues to evolve behind us, regardless of whether we actively participate or not.Another standout lyric worth exploring is, "When all your prayers have been prayed, that's when you know your dream is over." This lyric evokes a sense of loss and resignation, highlighting the realization that sometimes our aspirations and dreams can remain unfulfilled despite our best efforts. It presents the idea that even though we may strive for certain outcomes, circumstances can intervene and lead us down a different path. This lyric affirms that accepting the end of a dream is a crucial step towards personal growth and embracing the next chapter.Continuing on, the band sings, "One of these days I'm gonna do as I say and do it my way. I'm gonna grow those wings and learn to fly and hit the sky." This lyric embodies a sense of determination and the desire to break free from the confines of one's current circumstances. It speaks to the innate longing for self-expression, independence, and the pursuit of personal dreams. It emphasizes that despite the challenges faced along the journey, there remains an inexorable drive to strive for individuality and soar above limitations.These lyrics, among others, all contribute to the overarching theme of the song by examining various facets of the human experience. Each lyric delves into unexpected and imaginative territories, ultimately tying back to the main theme of the song – the perpetual nature of life and the struggle to navigate the ever-changing world."Life Goes On" prompts introspection, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make. It serves as a gentle reminder that time continues to march forward, sometimes leaving us behind. However, the song also imparts a message of resilience, urging us to persevere and embrace the changes that come our way.In conclusion, Echo & the Bunnymen's "Life Goes On" is a profound exploration of the complexities of existence. Through its lyrical depth and poetic elegance, it captivates listeners and compels them to confront their own struggles and triumphs. It invites us to embrace the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the pursuit of personal growth. Ultimately, this timeless song serves as a poignant reminder that despite the challenges we face, life goes on, and it is up to us to choose how we navigate the journey.