This Could Go On
Glen Alfred
Eternal Plea: The Fragility of Love and Existence in 'This Could Go On'
Glen Alfred's song 'This Could Go On' delves into the complexities of love, self-worth, and the transient nature of life. The lyrics open with a candid admission of the singer's self-doubt and vulnerability, hinting at a struggle with mental health. The line 'I never said that I was crazy, sometimes I think it might be true' sets the tone for a deeply introspective journey. The singer questions their significance in the life of their partner, pondering whether they are truly valued or merely taken for granted. This introspection is further emphasized by the repeated imagery of being on their knees, a powerful metaphor for humility, desperation, and a plea for understanding.
The chorus, with its repetitive 'This could go on and on and on and on forever,' underscores the cyclical nature of these emotions and the seemingly endless struggle for validation and connection. The singer's position of being 'down on my knees' suggests a state of surrender, where all they have left is their vulnerability. This repetition also reflects the ongoing nature of their emotional turmoil, as if they are trapped in a loop of seeking reassurance and fearing abandonment.
In the second verse, Alfred juxtaposes the fleeting moments of life with the enduring nature of their emotional state. The imagery of a day ending in seconds and grass withering in the wind highlights the impermanence of life and relationships. The singer's contemplation of their position and the inevitability of change ('The Sun it rises in the morning and then it sets into the dark') serves as a poignant reminder of life's transient beauty. The song ultimately leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved tension, as the singer acknowledges that their relationship could either endure or fall apart, mirroring the unpredictable nature of existence itself.