Ages Past, Ages Hence

Loreena McKennitt's song "Ages Past, Ages Hence" is a poetic exploration of the timeless relationship between nature and humanity. The lyrics paint vivid imagery of ancient castles, climbing cliffs, and windswept shores, evoking a sense of history and the passage of time. The recurring motif of twisting trees standing as silent witnesses suggests a deep connection between the natural world and human experiences. The phrase "ages past, ages hence" emphasizes the cyclical nature of time, where past and future are intertwined, and each moment is a page carefully turned in the book of existence.

The song delves into the introspective journey of the human soul, as seen in lines like "What picked smile has touched your lips? What melody so sweet soothed your breast, your beating heart?" These questions reflect on the moments of joy and solace that have shaped one's inner world. The imagery of the underworld going to sleep and the torchlight shining bright in the night symbolizes the transition from darkness to enlightenment, a journey into the depths of one's self-awareness. The laughter bubbling within and the quiet witnessing of man's journey into himself highlight the introspective and contemplative nature of the song.

McKennitt's lyrical style, rich with metaphors and evocative language, invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and the broader human experience. The ever-turning, ever-churning waves represent the constant flow of thoughts and emotions, while the petals gathered by the wind symbolize fleeting moments and memories. The song's repetition of "ages past, ages hence" serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of time and the interconnectedness of all things. Through her music, McKennitt captures the essence of the human condition, blending it seamlessly with the timeless beauty of the natural world.