Time To Move On

Glenn Yarbrough's song 'Time To Move On' is a poignant reflection on the inevitability of change and the necessity of moving forward despite the hardships and emotional weight of the past. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a harsh winter setting in, symbolizing a period of difficulty and stagnation. The repeated imagery of snow and the barren landscape of the Black Hills underscores the sense of desolation and the need for a fresh start. This seasonal metaphor suggests that just as winter gives way to spring, there is hope for renewal and growth after a period of dormancy and struggle.

The song delves into the emotional toll of unfulfilled efforts and dreams. The lines 'We watered the earth with our tears, babe, / Got no fruit from the trees, / No honey from the bees' speak to the frustration and sorrow of investing time and energy into something that yields no reward. This agricultural metaphor highlights the futility and disappointment of their endeavors, reinforcing the need to leave behind what no longer serves them. The mention of laying flowers on a grave adds a layer of mourning and finality, suggesting that the past must be honored but not clung to.

Ultimately, 'Time To Move On' is about resilience and the courage to honor one's promises and aspirations. The narrator's resolve to keep a promise to live, despite the pain of leaving, is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for endurance and hope. The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone encourages listeners to embrace change as a necessary part of life, even when it means leaving behind what is familiar and stepping into the unknown.