As Tears Go By

Avenged Sevenfold's rendition of 'As Tears Go By' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, loss, and the passage of time. The song opens with the narrator observing children at play, a scene that evokes a sense of innocence and joy. However, this joy is not shared by the narrator, who feels a profound sense of detachment and melancholy. The repeated line, 'I sit and watch as tears go by,' underscores the emotional distance and sorrow that the narrator experiences, highlighting a stark contrast between the carefree nature of the children and the narrator's own emotional state.

The lyrics delve deeper into the narrator's internal struggle, revealing that material wealth cannot compensate for the intangible joys of life. The line 'My riches can't buy everything' suggests a realization that money cannot purchase happiness or the simple pleasures of life, such as the sound of children singing. Instead, the narrator is left with the somber sound of rain, a metaphor for their sadness and isolation. This imagery reinforces the theme of unfulfilled desires and the emptiness that can accompany material success.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on their own past, recognizing that the activities the children engage in are reminiscent of their own childhood. This realization brings a bittersweet sense of nostalgia, as the narrator acknowledges that these once-new experiences are now distant memories. The repetition of the phrase 'I sit and watch as tears go by' serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitable loss of innocence. Through its evocative lyrics and melancholic tone, 'As Tears Go By' captures the universal human experience of longing for the past and grappling with the realities of the present.