We Used To Know

Jethro Tull's 'We Used To Know' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The song's lyrics delve into themes of nostalgia, aging, and the bittersweet nature of memories. The opening lines, 'Whenever I get to feel this way / Try to find new words to say / I think about the bad old days / We used to know,' set the tone for a contemplative journey through the past. The 'bad old days' are remembered with a mix of fondness and regret, highlighting the complexity of human emotions when looking back on one's life.

The imagery of 'Nights of winter turn me cold / Fears of dying, getting old' evokes a sense of melancholy and the universal fear of aging and mortality. The line 'We ran the race and the race was won / By running slowly' suggests a paradoxical wisdom gained over time, where the rush of youth gives way to a more measured and reflective pace in later years. This metaphor underscores the idea that life's true victories often come from patience and perseverance rather than speed and ambition.

As the song progresses, it touches on the inevitability of change and the importance of cherishing the present. 'Saving up the birds in hand / While in the bush the others land' speaks to the value of appreciating what one has rather than constantly seeking more. The closing lines, 'Each to his own way I'll go mine / Best of luck in what you find / But for your own sake remember times / We used to know,' serve as a gentle reminder to hold onto shared memories even as paths diverge. This sentiment encapsulates the song's overarching message: while time moves forward and circumstances change, the bonds and experiences of the past remain a vital part of our identity.