Song Meaning
Lobo's rendition of "As Time Goes By", popularized in *Casablanca*, isn't just a romantic ballad; it's a stoic philosophical argument dressed in the velvet of nostalgia. The song doesn't revel in the fleeting nature of trends or the ephemerality of emotions. Instead, it stakes its claim on the bedrock of human experience: "You must remember this, a kiss is still a kiss." It posits that beneath the surface of societal shifts and technological advancements, certain primal urges and connections remain stubbornly constant.
The brilliance of the lyrics lies in their simplicity. "Moonlight and love songs never out of date; hearts full of passion, jealousy and hate." It's an acknowledgement of the messy, sometimes contradictory, nature of love. The inclusion of "jealousy and hate" isn't a cynical twist, but a realistic portrayal. Love, in its rawest form, isn't always pretty, but it is always powerful. This honesty resonates far more deeply than any saccharine declaration could.
Ultimately, "As Time Goes By" isn't just about romantic love; it's about the enduring human spirit. The "fight for love and glory" isn't merely a plot device; it's the essence of our striving. Lobo's delivery, tinged with a hint of wistfulness, underscores the song's core message: that even as the world changes, the fundamental truths of human connection remain our anchor. It's a reminder that in the face of uncertainty, we can always rely on the enduring power of love and the timelessness of the human heart.