As Time Goes By

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of enduring human connection, suggesting that certain core emotions and actions remain constant despite the passage of time. The opening lines establish a simple, almost declarative tone: "A kiss is still a kiss, A sigh is just a sigh." This repetition emphasizes the unchanging nature of these fundamental expressions of feeling, anchoring the listener in a sense of familiarity. The narrator insists that these "fundamental things apply" as time moves forward, creating a foundation of stability amidst inevitable change. The central tension arises from the contrast between the predictable constancy of love and the unpredictable nature of life. While lovers will "still say 'I love you'" and the world "will always welcome lovers," the lyrics also acknowledge the darker side of passion: "Jelousy and hate." This duality suggests that the intensity of human relationships, for better or worse, is a persistent force that transcends temporal shifts. The phrase "No matter what the future brings" highlights this resilience, implying that love and its associated emotions are a reliable constant. The craft here lies in the song's elegant simplicity and its use of recurring motifs. The juxtaposition of romantic imagery like "Moonlight and love songs" with raw emotions like "Jelousy and hate" creates a rich, complex portrait of relationships. The cyclical structure, with the refrain "As time goes by" returning, reinforces the theme of continuity. The lyrics present a somewhat deterministic view of human nature, stating "Woman needs man / And man must have his mate," which, while potentially debatable, underscores the perceived inherent drive for connection. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics stems from their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgic reassurance. By focusing on the unchanging aspects of human experience – love, desire, and even conflict – the song offers a comforting perspective on the relentless march of time. It suggests that while circumstances may alter, the essential nature of human connection, with all its joys and struggles, remains a steadfast element of life, always finding its way back to the "same old story."