If The Story Is Over

Stratovarius' song "If The Story Is Over" is a poignant exploration of life's fleeting nature and the quest for meaning and redemption. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of nostalgia and introspection, as the narrator reflects on their past experiences and the passage of time. The opening lines, "Once upon a time I was the scribe of all my dreams / I've seen the years turn into dust / Now feel the rust in me," evoke a sense of lost dreams and the inevitable decay that comes with time. The imagery of Avalon and the changing seasons further emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the narrator's journey through it.

The song delves into the theme of legacy and the desire to leave a lasting impact. The narrator acknowledges that their life's work is encapsulated in the pages they've written, but they also express a sense of futility, stating, "It's all the same, it never mattered anyway / It's all a lie so let it burn." This line suggests a disillusionment with the superficiality of words and the transient nature of human achievements. However, there is also a yearning for redemption and a desire to make the final chapter of their life meaningful and authentic: "If the story is over, this chapter my last / Let it be my best one, let it be my own."

The song's emotional core lies in the narrator's plea for strength and guidance as they face the unknown. The lines, "Come night, test my will, test my soul / Test my faith and test my heart, torn apart / Make me strong, make me whole again," reveal a deep vulnerability and a hope for renewal. The narrator seeks to overcome their past regrets and find a sense of purpose and wholeness. The recurring motif of the fading candlelight symbolizes the dwindling time and the urgency to make the most of the remaining moments. Ultimately, "If The Story Is Over" is a powerful meditation on the human condition, the search for meaning, and the desire for a redemptive conclusion to one's life story.