Released: 2016
Norah Jones’ “Carry On” is a reflective ballad about moving forward despite past regrets and unresolved issues. The song encourages letting go of what cannot be changed and embracing peace. It’s a gentle reminder that life continues, and we must find our way through the quiet moments.
The opening lines “And after all’s been said and done, Who said it best, were you the one?” hint at a past conversation or argument. It suggests a moment of reflection on who had the final word, but ultimately, it doesn’t matter. The focus is on moving forward, “Let’s just forget, leave it behind, And carry on.”
In the second verse, “If you should find the time to speak, Then speak to me, I’d never keep You from your final destiny,” there’s an openness to communication. The speaker is willing to listen but also respects the other person’s journey. “So carry on” is a gentle nudge to continue on one’s path.
The repeated lines “Into the quiet I am bound, What you have lost, I’ve never found” convey a sense of solitude and acceptance. The speaker acknowledges their own shortcomings, “I lost my nerve,” yet finds peace in the quiet. It’s about finding calm in the midst of uncertainty.
The song circles back to the beginning, “And now that all’s been said and done, Who said it best, were you the one?” reinforcing the idea of letting go. “Let’s just forget, leave it behind, And carry on” is a mantra for moving past what’s been and focusing on the present and future.
