Promises (as The Years Go By)

IQ's song 'Promises (as The Years Go By)' delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships over time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of anger, isolation, and longing. The opening lines, 'Say awhile, when I'm not alone / I forget all the anger in me,' suggest a temporary solace found in companionship, which quickly dissipates when solitude returns. This sets the stage for a recurring theme of fleeting comfort and enduring pain.

The song's imagery of 'never ending circles' and 'solitary confinement' evokes a sense of being trapped in a cycle of emotional turmoil. The mention of 'summer madness' and 'perfume on your cheek' contrasts sharply with the 'coldness' that follows, highlighting the transient nature of happiness and the inevitable return of sorrow. The lyrics 'These are days of the mob-rule, sharp tongue, curfew' reflect a chaotic and oppressive environment, further intensifying the protagonist's sense of entrapment and despair.

A significant aspect of the song is the plea for honesty and the rejection of false promises. The repeated refrain 'As the years go by / Don't make any false promises' underscores the importance of truth and integrity in relationships. The protagonist's yearning for liberation and understanding is palpable, as they seek solace in prayer and introspection. The song's conclusion, with its poignant lines 'Caught in the middle of a cold war zone / I left my lover in a far-off place,' encapsulates the enduring pain of separation and the hope for eventual reconciliation. Through its evocative lyrics and emotional depth, 'Promises (as The Years Go By)' offers a profound exploration of the human condition and the passage of time.