I've been a fan of the progressive rock group Yes since my early days in high school. The band was originally formed in 1968 and has undergone a number of line-up changes throughout its history (they are still playing). The band is known for its complex musical arrangements and lyrics, with some of their songs lasting up to 20 minutes (far too long for radio). One of the band's most beautiful songs is actually a part of another, much longer song called "The Gates of Delirium" from their seventh studio album, Relayer. "The Gates of Delirium" is almost 22 minutes in length, and its lyrics are loosely based upon Leo Tolstoy's classic novel War and Peace. The final section of the song is called "Soon", which was actually released on radio as a separate single in the United Kingdom and was played live in concert by itself. The lyrics carry a message of hope and transformation for a better future, where darkness is replaced by light. The song was released in 1974, which was a difficult time in America and the world.
Regardless of what you think about the recent U.S. election, I think it's fair to say that we are again going through a difficult time in our nation's history. I still believe in America. I still believe that there is a bright future ahead, and I can't think of a better moment to send out a message of peace and hope:
Soon oh soon the light
Pass within and soothe the endless night
And wait here for you
Our reason to be here
Soon oh soon the time
All we move to gain will reach and calm
Our heart is open
Our reason to be here
Long ago, set into rhyme
Soon oh soon the light
Ours to shape for all time, ours the right
The sun will lead us
Our reason to be here
The sun will lead us
Our reason to be here
Check out a version of "Soon" from the band's 1975 World Tour here.
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