Stevie Wonder’s “As” is a soulful ode to enduring love. At its core, the song is about love’s timeless and unyielding nature. Wonder expresses a love so deep, it transcends time and change. The lyrical journey is a powerful testament to love’s ability to endure, no matter what. Love is not just a fleeting emotion but a constant, unbreakable force. The song, through its poetic comparisons, emphasizes that love is as eternal as the most steadfast elements of our world and universe. It’s a reminder that true love is everlasting, defying all odds and changes.
Wonder wrote this song as a tribute to the power of love, arguably drawing from personal experiences and observations. His lyrics paint a picture of love’s permanence, comparing it to the eternal aspects of nature and life. It’s a celebration of love’s unending journey, wrapped in the enchanting melody of Wonder’s music.
Curious about the magic behind Stevie Wonder’s “As”? This isn’t just any love song. It’s a journey through time and space, celebrating love’s infinite nature. Keep reading to discover how Wonder weaves this timeless message through his poetic lyrics.
“As” Lyrics Meaning
The opening lines, “As around the sun the earth knows she’s revolving / And the rosebuds know to bloom in early May,” set a cosmic and natural stage. Here, Wonder compares love to the certainty of the earth’s orbit and the predictable blooming of roses. It’s about love being as natural and sure as nature’s most fundamental processes.
“Just as hate knows love’s the cure / You can rest your mind assure / That I’ll be loving you always,” Wonder continues. This part is crucial. It’s not just about love enduring but also its power to heal and overcome negativity. The progression of time, symbolized by growing older, is juxtaposed with the unwavering nature of his love.
In the lines “As now can’t reveal the mystery of tomorrow / But in passing will grow older every day,” there’s an acknowledgment of life’s uncertainties. Yet, despite the unknown, his commitment to love remains unshaken. It’s a beautiful contrast between the unpredictable nature of life and the certainty of his love.
Then comes the cascade of metaphors – “Until the ocean covers every mountain high / Until the dolphin flies and parrots live at sea…” Here, Wonder takes us into an almost surreal realm. Love is presented as transcending even the most bizarre and unthinkable changes in the world.
Finally, “Until the day that you are me and I am you” brings a profound sense of unity and oneness. It’s not just about loving another person but becoming so intertwined that the boundaries between self and other blur.
The Story Behind “As”
Stevie Wonder wrote “As” during a period of intense creativity and personal growth. It was the 1970s, a time of social and cultural change. Wonder, at this stage of his career, was not only a musician but a storyteller and a visionary. He was exploring new depths in his music, intertwining social consciousness with personal emotions. “As” reflects this blend. It’s not just a love song but a message of hope and resilience during times of change.
The song’s universal themes likely stem from Wonder’s personal experiences and observations. He’s known for his ability to connect deeply with his audience, turning personal tales into universal truths.