'39

'39 by Freddie Mercury is a poignant and imaginative song that delves into themes of exploration, time, and the emotional toll of long journeys. The song tells the story of a group of volunteers who set out on a space voyage in the year 1939, a time when lands were scarce, and the promise of new worlds beckoned. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their departure, filled with hope and the beauty of a 'blue and sunny morn.' The volunteers embark on their journey with bravery, never looking back or showing fear, as they sail across the 'milky seas,' a metaphor for the vastness of space.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the voyage has taken a toll on the travelers. Despite bringing back news of a 'world so newly born,' they return to find that many years have passed on Earth, and the world they once knew has aged. The emotional weight of this realization is captured in the lines, 'For the earth is old and grey, Little darlin' we'll away, But my love this cannot be.' The volunteers have aged only a year, but the world they left behind has moved on without them, creating a sense of loss and longing.

The recurring refrain, 'Don't you hear my call, Though you're many years away,' underscores the deep emotional connection between the travelers and those they left behind. The letters written in the sand symbolize the attempts to bridge the gap of time and space, but ultimately, they cannot replace the touch and presence of loved ones. The song's melancholic tone reflects the bittersweet nature of exploration and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of discovery. Freddie Mercury's storytelling in '39' is a masterful blend of science fiction and human emotion, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.