Foot Of The Mountain

a-ha's song 'Foot Of The Mountain' delves into the yearning for a simpler, quieter life away from the chaos and noise of modern existence. The lyrics emphasize the power of silence, suggesting that in a world filled with clever lines and easy rhymes, sometimes the best response is to silence everything. This silence is portrayed as a perfect alibi, a way to navigate through the longest nights and find peace. The repetition of 'silence always wins' underscores the idea that sometimes, retreating from the noise is the most powerful action one can take.

The song paints a vivid picture of an idyllic life 'by the foot of the mountain,' where the protagonists can build a home, clear a yard, and live without the pressures and demands of the outside world. This imagery of a white picket fence and a home at the mountain's base symbolizes a return to simplicity and a desire for stability and tranquility. The mountain serves as a metaphor for a place of refuge and a fresh start, away from the mistakes and expectations of society.

The lyrics also touch on themes of learning from past mistakes and conforming to societal norms ('Speak when spoken to / And do what others do'). However, the dream of living by the mountain represents a break from these constraints, offering a chance to see how life could be different. The song's hopeful tone suggests that this dream is not just an escape but a potential reality, a place where one can find true peace and contentment. The repeated refrain of 'we could stay there and never come back' reinforces the allure of this simpler life, making it a powerful anthem for those seeking solace and a fresh start.