the way
Surfaces Lyrics

The opening lines of Surfaces’ song “The Way” describe a scene of an event winding down, the heat fading and the light growing dim, while cars impatiently line up. The singer notes that most tunes played at such events will be forgotten, but some may “swing on their way back home”, suggesting that certain songs have the power to linger in people’s memories and remain with them long after the occasion has passed. As the final waves of the music recede, the silence is filled with a sense of loneliness and longing. The singer is left alone, with only their inner turmoil for company, but is buoyed by the prospect of singing one more song.

The second verse seems to thank the audience for being present and attentive during the performance, and acknowledges that the musicians have invested their hearts into the show. “We’re glad they’ve not been lame” suggests that the response has been positive and enthusiastic. They are grateful for being able to share their dreams and aspirations through music, and the experience has been a source of gain for all involved. The repetition of the final lines, “You’ll be feeling so alone / When everybody’s gone / You’ll be spending your time / Singing one last song”, reinforces the theme of the enduring power of music, and the ability of a single song to sustain a person emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically.

Overall, “The Way” seems to be a reflection on the power of music to bring people together and to sustain us through difficult times. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and loss, but also hope and resilience, as the singer finds solace in music and singing, and the potential of a single song to provide comfort and connection.