The Meaning Behind The Song: Day Is Done by Peter, Paul and Mary
“Day Is Done” is a beautiful song by Peter, Paul and Mary, which was released in 1969. The song is a melancholic and reflective one, which draws on themes of life and death, and the continuity of time. The lyrics and melody are haunting and poetic, and the song conveys a deep sense of longing and acceptance.
The Lyrics and Melody of Day Is Done
The song begins with the lines “Tell me why you’re crying my son. I know you’re frightened, like everyone. Is it the thunder in the distance you fear? Will it help if I stay very near?” The lyrics evoke feelings of reassurance and comfort, as the singer assures her son that she is there to protect and care for him.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase “Day is done, gone the sun, from the lakes, from the hills, from the sky. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.” The melody of the chorus is a simple and beautiful one, which conveys a sense of peacefulness and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that the day is over, and that it is time to rest and let go.
The second verse of the song is short and bittersweet, as the singer addresses the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of death. “Fading light, dims the sight, and a star gems the sky, gleaming bright. From afar, drawing near, falls the night.” The lyrics suggest that life is precious and fleeting, and that we must cherish each moment.
The final chorus of the song repeats the line “Day is done, gone the sun…” several times, before ending with the final line “God is nigh.” The melody of the song comes to a quiet and gentle close, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and acceptance.
The Meaning Behind the Song
“Day Is Done” is a song about life and death, and the cyclical nature of time. The lyrics suggest that life is precious and fleeting, and that we must embrace each moment. The song also touches on themes of comfort and reassurance, as the singer comforts her son and reminds him that she is there to protect and care for him.
The chorus of the song is particularly poignant, as it suggests that the day is over, and that it is time to rest and let go. The phrase “God is nigh” in the final line of the song suggests that the singer believes in a higher power, and that there is comfort to be found in faith.
Overall, “Day Is Done” is a beautiful and thought-provoking song, which encourages us to appreciate the beauty of life, and to find comfort in the face of death.
FAQs
What inspired Peter, Paul and Mary to write “Day Is Done”?
Peter, Paul and Mary were inspired to write “Day Is Done” by the tumultuous political and social climate of the late 1960s. The song was written during a time of unrest and uncertainty, when many people were questioning their beliefs and values. The song is a reflection of the deep sense of longing and existential angst that many people were feeling at the time.
What is the meaning behind the lyrics “Day is done, gone the sun…”?
The lyrics “Day is done, gone the sun, from the lakes, from the hills, from the sky. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh” suggest that the day is over, and that it is time to rest and let go. The phrase “God is nigh” suggests that there is comfort to be found in faith, and that even in the face of death, there is hope.
What message does “Day Is Done” convey?
“Day Is Done” conveys a message of acceptance and peace. The song encourages us to appreciate the beauty of life, and to find comfort in the face of death. The lyrics suggest that life is precious and fleeting, and that we must embrace each moment.
Why is “Day Is Done” considered a timeless classic?
“Day Is Done” is considered a timeless classic because it touches on themes that are universally relevant. The song addresses themes of life and death, time, and existential angst, which are timeless and enduring. The simple and beautiful melody of the song also adds to its timeless appeal.
What emotions does “Day Is Done” evoke?
“Day Is Done” evokes a range of emotions, including melancholy, nostalgia, reassurance, and acceptance. The lyrics and melody of the song convey a deep sense of longing and beauty, which can be both moving and comforting.
When was “Day Is Done” released?
“Day Is Done” was released in 1969, as part of Peter, Paul and Mary’s album “Reunion”. The album was a tribute to the folk music scene of the 1960s, and featured a mix of original songs and covers of classic folk songs.
What impact did “Day Is Done” have on popular culture?
“Day Is Done” had a significant impact on popular culture, and is regarded as one of Peter, Paul and Mary’s most iconic and enduring songs. The simple and beautiful melody of the song has been covered by many artists over the years, and the lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today.
What is the significance of the phrase “God is nigh”?
The phrase “God is nigh” suggests that there is comfort to be found in faith, and that even in the face of death, there is hope. The phrase is a reminder that we are not alone, and that there is a higher power that can offer us comfort and guidance.
What makes “Day Is Done” a great song?
“Day Is Done” is a great song because it touches on themes that are universally relevant, and conveys a message of peace and acceptance. The simple and haunting melody of the song adds to its timeless appeal, and the lyrics are poetic and moving.
How did audiences respond to “Day Is Done”?
Audiences responded positively to “Day Is Done”, and the song became one of Peter, Paul and Mary’s most popular and enduring songs. The song’s simple and beautiful melody, combined with its poignant lyrics, struck a chord with listeners, and continues to connect with audiences today.
What other songs are similar to “Day Is Done”?
There are many songs that share similarities with “Day Is Done”, including “Both Sides, Now” by Joni Mitchell, “The Times They Are A-Changin” by Bob Dylan, and “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Byrds. These songs address similar themes of life and death, time, and change, and share a sense of melancholy and beauty.
What impact did Peter, Paul and Mary have on folk music?
Peter, Paul and Mary had a significant impact on the folk music scene of the 1960s, and helped to popularize the genre. The trio’s simple and beautiful harmonies, combined with their politically and socially conscious lyrics, helped to define the sound of folk music in the 1960s, and inspired many other musicians to follow in their footsteps.
