The Meaning Behind The Song: Carry On by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Carry On is a well-known song by the American-Canadian supergroup Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Released in September 1970, it is the opening track on their iconic album Déjà Vu. The song was composed by Stephen Stills and carries a powerful message that resonates with listeners even to this day.
Before diving into the meaning behind the song, let’s take a look at the details of Carry On:
| Title | Carry On |
|---|---|
| Artist | Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young |
| Writer/Composer | Stephen Stills |
| Album | Déjà Vu (1970) |
| Release Date | September 1970 |
| Genre | Folk Rock |
| Duration | 4:26 |
| Producer | Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Graham Nash & David Crosby |
Now that we have the basic information laid out, let’s explore the deeper meaning behind the lyrics of Carry On.
The song opens with the lines “One morning I woke up and I knew, You were really gone. A new day, a new way, And new eyes to see the dawn.” These words express the pain of waking up and realizing that someone you deeply care about has left your life. It conveys the sense of loss and the need to find a new path forward.
The chorus repeats the phrase “Carry on” multiple times, emphasizing the message of resilience and perseverance. It suggests that despite the challenges or heartbreaks we face, we must continue moving forward and not let ourselves be weighed down by the past.
As the song progresses, the lyrics touch upon the feeling of freedom and hope that comes with the dawn of a new day. “The sky is clearing and the night has gone out, The sun, he come, the world is all full of love, Rejoice, rejoice, we have no choice but to carry on.” These lines remind us that no matter how dark the night may have been, the light will eventually break through, bringing love and joy into our lives.
The verses also mention the idea of living through experiences and paying the necessary dues to truly understand and appreciate life. “To sing the blues you’ve got to live the dues and carry on.” This phrase implies that in order to truly understand and appreciate the beauty of life, one must go through both joyful and challenging experiences.
It is also worth noting the juxtaposition of the two parts of the song. The first part sets the tone with its uplifting and hopeful lyrics, while the second part, titled “Questions,” takes a more introspective turn. It explores the uncertainty and longing for answers one may have when a loved one leaves: “Where are you going now, my love? Where will you be tomorrow? Will you bring me happiness? Will you bring me sorrow?” These questions represent the universal human desire for clarity and understanding in relationships.
Personally, Carry On holds a special place in my heart. The powerful melody and heartfelt lyrics have accompanied me through various stages of my life. Whenever I faced obstacles or moments of uncertainty, this song always served as a reminder to keep pushing forward and to trust that eventually, the clouds would clear and love would prevail.
The song’s universal message of perseverance and hope resonates with listeners of all ages. While it was written during the turbulent times of the 1970s, its themes remain relevant even today. Carry On encourages us to embrace change, to rise above adversity, and to keep our hearts open to the beauty and love that surrounds us.
In conclusion, Carry On by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is a timeless anthem that reminds us of the strength we possess to carry on in the face of adversity. It speaks of resilience, hope, and the universal human desire for understanding and love. So, let us take these words to heart and press on, knowing that brighter days are ahead.
