Who Knows Where The Time Goes

Judy Collins' song 'Who Knows Where The Time Goes' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the enduring nature of love. The lyrics evoke a sense of timelessness, capturing moments that seem to slip away unnoticed. The imagery of birds leaving across the morning sky and the deserted shore suggests the inevitable changes that come with the passage of time. Yet, the singer remains unfazed, choosing not to count the time but to live in the moment.

The recurring question, 'Who knows where the time goes?' serves as a meditative refrain, emphasizing the mystery and fluidity of time. The song suggests that time is an abstract concept, one that cannot be controlled or fully understood. Instead of being preoccupied with its passage, the singer focuses on the present, finding solace in the constancy of love. The line 'And I'm not alone when my love is near me' highlights the comforting presence of a loved one, which makes the passage of time feel less significant.

Judy Collins' gentle, soothing voice adds an ethereal quality to the song, enhancing its reflective and introspective nature. The song's structure, with its repetitive and calming melody, mirrors the cyclical nature of time and seasons. The mention of 'storms of winter' and 'birds of spring' symbolizes the natural cycles of life, reinforcing the idea that time is a continuous flow rather than a series of discrete moments. Ultimately, 'Who Knows Where The Time Goes' is a beautiful meditation on the ephemeral nature of time and the enduring power of love, encouraging listeners to cherish the present and find peace in the constancy of their relationships.