Fly From Here I (We Can Fly)

The song 'Fly From Here I (We Can Fly)' by Yes is a profound exploration of escape, transformation, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an airfield, with old prop-shaft airliners standing as silent witnesses to the past. These airliners, with their altimeters reading zero, symbolize a state of stagnation and unfulfilled potential. The 'formless memories lingering' suggest a haunting presence of the past, a theme that resonates throughout the song.

The airfield setting serves as a metaphor for a place of transition, where the protagonist sits alone, watching the radar and feeling trapped in a cycle of waiting. The line 'Every day that you wait is one more that you've lost' underscores the urgency of seizing the moment and breaking free from inertia. The radar and the beam represent the search for direction and purpose, with the protagonist slowly falling into the screen, perhaps indicating a sense of being lost or consumed by the search itself.

The chorus, 'And we can fly from here,' is a powerful declaration of hope and possibility. It suggests that despite the cold nights and lingering memories, there is a way to rise above and move forward. The imagery of flying into a sky that's clearing and drying the tears for those once held dearly evokes a sense of healing and renewal. The repeated affirmation that 'we can fly' reinforces the idea that liberation and transformation are within reach, provided there is an understanding and willingness to take that leap.

The song's instrumental sections add to the emotional depth, allowing listeners to reflect on the themes of escape and transformation. The final lines, 'Every day that you waste is one more that you've lost,' serve as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of taking action before reaching the 'final point of no return.' 'Fly From Here I (We Can Fly)' is a compelling narrative about breaking free from the past, embracing change, and soaring towards a brighter future.