Time Will Be The Healer

Glen Hansard's song "Time Will Be The Healer" is a poignant exploration of the emotional journey one undergoes after a painful breakup. The lyrics emphasize the passage of time as a crucial element in the healing process. Hansard reassures the listener that, although the pain of hearing an ex-lover's name is unbearable now, time will eventually lift them up and help them move past the heartache. This message is a universal one, resonating with anyone who has experienced the end of a significant relationship.

The song employs various metaphors to illustrate the process of healing. For instance, Hansard compares the journey to being a river that must flow around obstacles, suggesting that sometimes the best way to deal with pain is to navigate around it rather than confront it head-on. He also advises burning bridges and breaking bonds, indicating that severing ties with the past can be a necessary step in moving forward. The repeated refrain, "Time will be the healer once again," serves as a comforting mantra, reinforcing the idea that time is a reliable and constant force in overcoming emotional turmoil.

Hansard also touches on practical advice for coping with heartbreak. He encourages staying close to friends and neighbors, keeping busy with work, and avoiding self-destructive behaviors like turning to alcohol. These suggestions are grounded in the understanding that while time is a healer, active efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle and support system are equally important. The song concludes with a hopeful note, asserting that a life lived true and full is the best way to prevail over past hurts. In the end, time not only heals but also stands as a testament to one's resilience and growth.