As It Was

Cale's song 'As It Was' delves into the themes of change, nostalgia, and the inevitable passage of time. The lyrics reflect a sense of longing for the past and an acknowledgment that things are no longer the same. The opening lines, 'Holdin' me back / Gravity's holdin' me back,' suggest a force that prevents the narrator from moving forward, possibly symbolizing the weight of memories or past experiences. The plea for someone to 'hold out the palm of your hand' indicates a desire for connection and support amidst these changes.

The chorus, 'In this world, it's just us / You know it's not the same as it was,' emphasizes the isolation and altered dynamics in relationships. The repetition of 'as it was' underscores the contrast between the past and the present, highlighting a sense of loss and the difficulty of adapting to new circumstances. The mention of 'Harry' and the questions about his well-being suggest a personal narrative, possibly addressing a friend or a loved one who is struggling with their own changes and challenges.

The song also touches on themes of loneliness and the search for help, as seen in the lines 'Ringin' the bell / And nobody's coming to help.' This imagery evokes a sense of abandonment and the struggle to find support in difficult times. The reference to 'your daddy lives by himself / He just wants to know that you're well' adds a layer of familial concern and the universal desire for reassurance and connection. Overall, 'As It Was' captures the bittersweet nature of change and the human need for connection and understanding in an ever-evolving world.