Carry On (feat. Kygo)
Rita Ora
Enduring Love and Resilience in 'Carry On'
Rita Ora's song 'Carry On,' featuring Kygo, is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring strength that comes from cherished memories. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone walking alone on a beach, missing the presence of a loved one whose 'footprints' once walked beside them. This imagery of the shore and the waves symbolizes the constant ebb and flow of life, and how the rhythm of the loved one’s memory keeps the narrator's heart in time, providing a sense of continuity and purpose.
The song delves into the transformative power of love, as the narrator reflects on how their loved one 'found' them and 'made [them] into something new.' This suggests a profound impact on the narrator's identity and sense of self, highlighting the deep connection and influence the loved one had. The promise to 'carry on for you' is a testament to the narrator's commitment to honor and continue the legacy of their loved one, even in their absence. This promise is not just a vow but a source of strength that helps the narrator navigate through 'the deepest waters' of life’s challenges.
The recurring lines 'keep me running, keep me coming back to you' and 'hold me harder, love me like you know you do' emphasize the enduring bond and the desire to feel the presence of the loved one, even if only through memories. The song beautifully captures the essence of resilience, showing how love can be a guiding force that helps one move forward, despite the pain of loss. Rita Ora's emotive delivery, combined with Kygo's melodic production, creates a powerful and uplifting anthem about the enduring power of love and the strength it provides in times of hardship.