About the song
John Denver’s “Eclipse”
A Song of Tranquility and Wonder
In the realm of folk music, John Denver stands as a towering figure, his gentle voice and heartfelt lyrics resonating with generations of listeners. Among his vast repertoire of beloved songs, “Eclipse” holds a special place, a poignant ballad that captures the awe-inspiring beauty of nature’s celestial spectacle.
Denver’s music is often characterized by its ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world, and “Eclipse” is no exception. The song opens with a gentle strum of the guitar, painting a serene picture of a tranquil landscape bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Denver’s voice, imbued with a touch of melancholy, weaves a tale of quiet contemplation, as he observes the impending celestial event.
A Lyrical Journey Through the Cosmos
The lyrics of “Eclipse” are a testament to Denver’s poetic prowess. He masterfully employs imagery to transport the listener on a lyrical journey through the cosmos, capturing the vastness and wonder of the universe. As the moon’s shadow descends upon the earth, Denver paints vivid descriptions of the changing sky, the hushed silence of nature, and the sense of awe that washes over the observer.
The song’s chorus serves as a powerful refrain, echoing the transformative power of the eclipse. Denver sings, “Oh, eclipse, you veil the sun, and leave the world in shadow,” capturing the moment when the sun’s brilliance is momentarily obscured, casting the earth into an otherworldly twilight. Yet, amidst this temporary darkness, Denver finds beauty and inspiration, suggesting that even in times of uncertainty and change, there is still light to be found.
A Timeless Classic
“Eclipse” is more than just a song about a celestial event; it is a profound reflection on the impermanence of life and the enduring beauty of the natural world. Denver’s lyrics remind us that even in the face of darkness, there is always the promise of light, just as the sun inevitably emerges from behind the moon’s shadow.
With its gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and evocative imagery, “Eclipse” has rightfully earned its place as a timeless classic in the realm of folk music. It is a song that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, offering a moment of tranquility and wonder amidst the chaos of modern life. As Denver’s voice soars through the verses, we are reminded of the vastness and beauty of the universe, and the profound connection we share with all living things.
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Lyrics
“Eclipse”
The sun is slowly fading in the western sky.
Sometimes it takes forever the day to end.
Sometimes it takes a lifetime, sometimes I think I’ll never see the sun again.There’s a heavy smog between me and the mountains,
it’s enough to make a grown man sit and cry.
It’s enough to make you wonder,
it’s enough to make the world roll up and die.I think it’s kind of interesting the way things get to be,
the way the people work with their machines.
Serenity’s a long time coming to me,
in fact, I don’t believe that I know what it means.In the east a shaded moon is hanging lazily,
I do believe I saw the old man smile.
I do believe I did, I do believe he’s been laughing all the while.I think it’s kind of interesting the way things get to be,
the way the people work with their machines.
Serenity’s a long time coming to me,
in fact, I don’t believe that I know what it means anymore.The sun is slowly fading in the western sky.
Sometimes it takes forever the day to end.
Sometimes it takes a lifetime, sometimes I think I’ll never see the sun again,
the sun again, the sun again.