Ripples

Genesis' song 'Ripples' is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of beauty and the passage of time. The lyrics open with a reference to 'bluegirls,' a metaphor for youthful beauty and innocence. These 'bluegirls' come in various forms, some wise and others not, but all share the common trait of having 'pretty blue eyes.' This imagery sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how time changes everything, even the most beautiful and seemingly eternal aspects of life. The line 'For an hour a man may change' suggests that beauty and youth are temporary, and what once seemed permanent can quickly become unfamiliar and strange.

The song then transitions to a more mythical and allegorical setting, describing a journey through the 'promised land' where honey flows and one is led by the hand. This idyllic scene is disrupted by the appearance of a pool, a symbol of self-reflection and the passage of time. The face in the water, which once was beautiful, now looks up and shakes her head, signifying that the person will never look the same again. This moment of realization is both melancholic and profound, emphasizing the inevitability of change and the loss of youthful beauty.

The chorus, 'Sail away, away / Ripples never come back / Gone to the other side,' reinforces the theme of irreversibility. Just as ripples in water never return to their origin, moments of beauty and youth are fleeting and cannot be reclaimed. The reference to 'the face that launched a thousand ships' alludes to Helen of Troy, whose beauty was legendary but ultimately transient. The song concludes with a sense of acceptance, urging the listener to 'look into the pool' and acknowledge that ripples, like moments in life, are ephemeral and will eventually 'go to the other side.'

Genesis, known for their progressive rock style, often delves into complex themes and rich storytelling in their music. 'Ripples' is no exception, blending poetic lyrics with evocative imagery to create a timeless meditation on the nature of beauty and the inexorable march of time.