As Time Goes By

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of enduring human nature, suggesting that core emotional experiences remain constant despite the passage of time. The opening lines establish a simple, almost declarative tone: "A kiss is still a kiss," and "A sigh is just a sigh." This repetition emphasizes the fundamental, unchanging quality of these actions and the feelings they represent. The narrator insists that "the fundamental things apply / As time goes by," grounding the sentiment in the predictable rhythms of life and love. This constancy is further illustrated through the rituals of romance. The lyrics state that when lovers connect, they "still say, 'I love you,'" a declaration the narrator assures us is reliable regardless of future uncertainties. This highlights a central tension: while the world and individual circumstances may shift, the essential human need for connection and expression of love persists. The phrase "As time goes by" acts as a refrain, reinforcing the idea that these core elements are timeless. The song then broadens its scope, acknowledging the complex, often contradictory nature of human emotion. "Hearts full of passion, jealousy and hate" coexist, and the primal drives of "Woman needs man and man must have his mate" are presented as undeniable truths. This duality, where intense love is intertwined with darker emotions and biological imperatives, is framed as an "old story." The narrative of "a fight for love and glory" and "a case of do or die" suggests that these fundamental drives fuel significant, high-stakes human endeavors. Ultimately, the lyrics find comfort and affirmation in this enduring cycle. The repeated assertion that "the world will always welcome lovers / As time goes by" offers a sense of continuity and hope. The craft lies in its straightforward language and insistent repetition, which build a powerful argument for the unchanging essence of human experience. It’s this unwavering focus on the fundamental, the predictable, and the deeply ingrained that makes the message resonate.