Song meaning of If You Go Away by Terry Jacks

The lyrics of the song "If You Go Away" by Terry Jacks convey a message about the emotional impact of someone leaving a relationship. The song depicts a sense of loss, longing, and despair when faced with the possibility of a loved one departing.

The beginning of the song expresses the devastating consequences that would come if the person were to leave, comparing it to taking away the sun and joy from the protagonist's life. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and fondness for the early days of the relationship, symbolized by the birds in the summer sky and the moon's stillness. The repetition of the line "If you go away" emphasizes the fear and sadness that accompanies the potential departure.

However, the song also offers a glimmer of hope in the chorus. It suggests that if the person stays, the protagonist will make their days extraordinary. They vow to create a unique and remarkable experience, promising to sail the sun, ride the rain, talk to the trees, and fly with the wind. This part of the song contrasts the emptiness and sorrow felt when someone leaves, emphasizing the potential for happiness and fulfillment if they choose to stay.

Overall, the lyrics of "If You Go Away" convey a plea to a loved one not to abandon the relationship. The song explores the emotional impact and the stark contrast between a life filled with love and adventure versus one filled with emptiness and longing. It encapsulates the universal fear of losing someone dear and the desire to hold onto the happiness they bring.