Meaning of How Long? by Eurythmics

In the realm of music, there are songs that simply exist to entertain, and then there are those that delve deeper, leaving a lasting impression on the listener's mind. One such song that falls into the latter category is the iconic hit by the Eurythmics, titled "How Long?". Released in 1986, this song resonates with its thought-provoking lyrics and soulful melody, exploring themes of love, staying strong, and the concept of time in a seemingly superficial world. Let's embark on a journey to unravel the imaginative themes hidden within this masterpiece.Upon first listen, "How Long?" seems to revolve around the quest to hold on to love in a world that often disregards genuine emotion. The lyrics convey a sense of longing, as if challenging the listener to ponder the ever-elusive nature of love and how it can endure. The opening verse sets the stage for introspection, describing a lazy afternoon where time seems to stand still, while also alluding to the impermanence of our experiences.One standout lyric that captures the essence of this song comes in the pre-chorus: "In fancy town, where nothing's real, they don't consider what you feel." This line brings forth a theme of authenticity versus pretense, highlighting the struggle of staying true to oneself in a world driven by superficiality. It portrays a society where people prioritize appearances over genuine connections, failing to acknowledge the emotional depth that love brings.Another noteworthy lyric that reinforces the overarching theme is found in the chorus: "How long will your love hold on? To stay strong enough." Here, the song encourages us to contemplate the strength of our love and how it can withstand the challenges that life throws our way. It urges us to question the longevity of our relationships, whether they can withstand the test of time or crumble under the weight of societal expectations.As the song progresses, the narrative delves deeper into the darker side of this superficial world. The metaphor of "fancy town" represents a realm of wealth and privilege, a place where people can lose touch with their own humanity. It portrays an environment where wrong is perceived as right, emphasizing the destructive consequences of conformity and the suppression of individuality.In the second verse, the Eurythmics paints a vivid picture of a world that strips individuals bare, much like frozen food on a shelf. This evocative imagery epitomizes the dehumanizing nature of superficiality, where individuals are reduced to mere objects, devoid of their inherent complexity. The mention of a "ship of fools" within a "crazy choir" adds an element of absurdity, underscoring the disconnection between people in this world of facades.One striking lyric in the third verse is "A deck of cards in perfect black, like cold cement on the pavement cracks." Building upon the earlier metaphor of a "ship of fools," this imagery symbolizes the fragility and unpredictable nature of relationships. It suggests that even the strongest bonds can falter, much like a deck of cards that may crumble at any moment. The reference to cold cement on pavement cracks emphasizes the realities of the world, where love is not always protected and cherished.Ultimately, all these individual themes intertwine to support the overarching message of love's endurance in the face of a superficial society. "How Long?" invites us to reflect on the importance of staying strong and true to ourselves, even when confronted with societal pressures to conform. It encourages us to value genuine connections and to defy the allure of a world that prioritizes appearance over substance.Songs have an incredible power to evoke emotions and spark introspection. "How Long?" is a stunning example of a song that captures the complexities of love, authenticity, and staying strong in a world that often fails to acknowledge our emotions. The Eurythmics' thought-provoking lyrics and haunting melodies leave a lasting impression, challenging us to ponder the weighty questions posed within the song. So let us embrace these imaginative themes and embark on a journey to discover the strength of our own love, even in the face of a superficial world.