Before The Dawn
Above & Beyond Lyrics

The lyrics of "Before The Dawn" by Above & Beyond convey a sense of bittersweet departure and the struggle to let go of the past. The song captures a moment just before dawn, where the singer is beside someone they deeply care for, possibly a lover or a dear friend. As they observe the peaceful slumber of this person, they make the decision to leave quietly, knowing that they shouldn't look back or dwell on their departure.

The lines "I know I shouldn't look back, lest I forget I have never been here, never to return, never to forget" express a conflict within the singer's mind. They acknowledge that leaving is necessary, but they also fear losing the memory of this moment. The idea of never returning and never forgetting suggests a finality to their departure, as if they are consciously choosing to move on from this chapter in their life.

The imagery of the "grave and tranquil lake" and everything being "quiet in my wake" symbolize a sense of peace and serenity. It could also represent a metaphorical burial of the singer's former self, leaving behind the burdens and troubles they have carried. The decision to leave is made for the sake of the person they are leaving behind, perhaps to protect them or because their presence has become a burden.

Overall, the lyrics of "Before The Dawn" evoke a deeply emotional and introspective moment, portraying the internal struggle of letting go and moving forward while cherishing the memory of the past.