“All Things Must Pass” is a soulful reflection on the transient nature of life and its experiences. The song, imbued with a sense of acceptance and tranquility, speaks to life’s inevitable changes and endings. Harrison, through his poetic lyrics, communicates a message of hope amidst change and loss. It’s a reminder that even in moments of darkness, time will bring relief and new beginnings. This isn’t just a song; it’s a philosophy, a serene acceptance of life’s ebb and flow. Written during a period of personal and collective transitions, it’s a universal message that resonates with anyone who has experienced change or loss.
Harrison’s message is clear: embrace the transient nature of life, for in this acceptance lies the key to inner peace and strength. His lyrics unfold like a gentle yet profound meditation on the impermanence of life.
“All Things Must Pass” Lyrics Meaning
George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass” The song begins with “Sunrise doesn’t last all morning, a cloudburst doesn’t last all day,” immediately setting the tone of transience. Here, Harrison uses natural phenomena as metaphors for life’s fleeting moments, suggesting that just as day turns to night, our experiences and emotions are equally transient.
The line “Seems my love is up and has left you with no warning” hints at a personal loss, perhaps a reference to the inevitable end of relationships, whether through distance, misunderstanding, or even death. It’s a poignant reminder of how quickly life’s circumstances can change, often without notice.
In the chorus, “All things must pass, all things must pass away,” there’s a powerful acceptance of this inevitacy. Harrison isn’t just singing about the end of things; he’s also emphasizing the liberation in understanding and accepting this truth. This acceptance is a key to peace and resilience in the face of life’s ups and downs.
Harrison speaks to the idea that after darkness, light will inevitably follow. “Now the darkness only stays at nighttime, in the morning it will fade away,” he sings, offering a message of hope and renewal. This lyric, especially, is a comforting thought, reassuring us that no matter how challenging a situation might seem, it will pass, and brighter days will come.
The Story Behind “All Things Must Pass”
In the late 1960s, The Beatles, the band with which Harrison rose to fame, was nearing its end. This period was marked by internal conflicts and individual growth that eventually led to the dissolution of one of the most influential bands in music history. “All Things Must Pass” was written against this backdrop of change, encapsulating Harrison’s philosophical and spiritual outlook.
Harrison, deeply influenced by Eastern philosophies and spirituality, was exploring themes of impermanence and detachment. His immersion in these ideas is evident in the song’s lyrics, which reflect a Zen-like acceptance of life’s transient nature. This mindset was not just a coping mechanism for the changes in his professional life but also a profound personal belief system that he embraced.
Moreover, Harrison’s personal life during this period was equally transformative. The end of The Beatles meant the beginning of his solo career, an exciting and uncertain journey. “All Things Must Pass” can be seen as Harrison reassuring himself and his listeners that change, though often difficult, brings new opportunities and growth.
In understanding the context in which this song was written, one can appreciate the depth of its message. Harrison was not just a musician; he was a thinker, a seeker, and a philosopher. “All Things Must Pass” is a testament to his ability to transform personal experiences and philosophical musings into a song that continues to inspire and comfort listeners around the world.