The song “I’ll Follow the Sun” paints a picture of embracing change and moving forward, even if it means leaving someone behind. It’s about life’s unpredictability and the need to find one’s own path, even if it leads to parting ways. It’s not about chasing the weather but about choosing hope, positivity, and a brighter future. The sentiment reflects the inevitability of change and the choice to be proactive about one’s destiny.
Curious about the layers in “I’ll Follow the Sun”? Keep reading to explore its depth and story!
“I’ll Follow the Sun” Lyrics Meaning
The lyrics chronologically trace the singer’s decision to move on, anticipating change and embracing the next chapter. The recurrent lines, “Oh, tomorrow may rain, so I’ll follow the sun”, symbolizes a mindset that prioritizes optimism. The sun stands for hope and better days, suggesting that the singer chooses to chase after what’s bright and promising, rather than dwelling on potential sorrows.
“One day, you’ll look to see I’ve gone” and “Some day, you’ll know I was the one” express a sense of longing and perhaps even regret. There’s an implication here that the person left behind might not have realized the singer’s worth or significance until after they’ve gone.
“And now the time has come, And so, my love, I must go” portrays a moment of finality. The decision to leave has been made, signifying that waiting for things to change is no longer an option. The repetition of phrases like “And though I lose a friend” underlines the pain of this decision, indicating that leaving isn’t always easy, but sometimes it’s necessary.
Lastly, the line “In the end, you will know” underscores a belief in future understanding. The singer believes that someday, the person left behind will comprehend and perhaps even respect the reason behind their departure.
The Story Behind “I’ll Follow the Sun”
The song, while universal in its message, can be seen as a reflection of the journey many artists and individuals undertake in life. Being tied to a situation or relationship that’s not conducive to growth or happiness can be stifling. The decision to pursue one’s happiness and peace, even if it means parting ways, is a theme deeply embedded in the song.
Many speculate that the state of mind of the songwriter at the time might have been one of transition. Like many artists, the struggle between staying true to one’s art, finding individual happiness, and balancing personal relationships can be challenging. The song may very well represent this inner turmoil.
It could be argued that the song serves as a mirror, allowing the listener to reflect upon their own crossroads in life. While penning this song, the songwriter perhaps contemplated a major life decision or was inspired by someone else’s story. While the exact motivation remains a mystery, what’s clear is the universal resonance of the song’s message: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes we must choose our own sunshine, even if it means moving on from familiar shores.