It started out as a feeling
Which then grew into a hope
Which then turned into a quiet thought
Which then turned into a quiet word

And then that word grew louder and louder
'Til it was a battle cry
I'll come back
When you call me
No need to say goodbye

Just because everything's changing
Doesn't mean it's never been this way before
All you can do is try to know who your friends are
As you head off to the war

Pick a star on the dark horizon
And follow the light
You'll come back when it's over
No need to say goodbye

You'll come back when it's over
No need to say goodbye

Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget

Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'Til they're before your eyes
You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say goodbye

You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say goodbye

Overall Meaning

Regina Spektor's "The Call" is a haunting song reflecting the changes and challenges of life while encouraging us to hold onto memories and cherished moments. The song begins with the verse "It started out as a feeling, which then grew into a hope, which then turned into a quiet thought, which then turned into a quiet word." These words reflect the first steps of a journey or a transformation taking place within one's heart or mind. As the music builds in intensity, the singer's voice grows passionate as she declares that what began with a mere feeling has developed into a battle cry. The phrase, “I’ll come back when you call me, no need to say goodbye” suggests the idea of loyalty and returning to those we cherish, even in the face of separation and change.

The chorus speaks to the timeless nature of change and the difficulty we all face when we have to leave people we care about behind. However, the chorus also reminds us that true friends remain steadfast even in the most challenging times. The idea of leaving and returning from a journey is also reflected in the line, "Pick a star on the dark horizon and follow the light." This metaphor encourages listeners to stay focused on their goals, even when the path ahead seems dark and uncertain.

The final verse speaks to the power of memory and the importance of holding onto the moments that make life worth living. The song concludes with the reassurance that no matter how much changes or how much time passes, we will always be coming back to the memories and people that shaped us.

Line by Line Meaning

It started out as a feeling
Emotions first came to surface

Which then grew into a hope
Those emotions turned into aspirations

Which then turned into a quiet thought
Aspirations gave rise to contemplation

Which then turned into a quiet word
Contemplation turned into a small resolution

And then that word grew louder and louder
That resolution became increasingly passionate

'Til it was a battle cry
Which eventually converted into a rallying slogan

I'll come back
I'll return

When you call me
At your behest

No need to say goodbye
Parting words need not be exchanged

Just because everything's changing
The world is everchanging

Doesn't mean it's never been this way before
This change isn't unprecedented