As Years Go By
The Fame Lyrics

The lyrics of "As Years Go By" by The Fame delve deep into themes of longing, introspection, and the passage of time. The singer begins by expressing a desire to observe and experience life as it unfolds around them. They acknowledge the transient nature of existence, captured symbolically in the act of trying to count raindrops on a sunny day. This juxtaposition of elements encapsulates the unpredictable and contrasting nature of life's moments.

The repeated questioning of "But what do you got now?" suggests a sense of searching for meaning or purpose amidst the everyday routine and challenges. The singer grapples with trying to offer more to someone, possibly a loved one, amidst the ebb and flow of life's circumstances. The metaphor of light reaching the shore conveys a sense of reaching a destination or achieving a goal, yet the memory of unspoken words lingers, hinting at unresolved feelings or conversations.

The mention of the world not being round without the presence of a significant other signifies the impact that person has on the singer's sense of balance and completeness. The imagery of rain in the sky leading to nothing when that person is absent symbolizes the emotional emptiness or lack of fulfillment that can result from their absence. The lines about giving it all and hanging by a thread reflect a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty in relationships and endeavors.

The final stanzas emphasize the importance of taking risks, even with broken wings, to pursue one's dreams or goals. The repeated refrain of "Look what you got now" serves as a reflective reminder to appreciate and cherish what one has in the present moment. The song's conclusion brings together the themes of connection, loss, and the impact of individual presence on the world's perceived shape and significance, underscoring the idea that as the years go by, our relationships and experiences shape our reality and understanding of existence.