About the song
“So Far Away” is one of the standout tracks from Carole King’s iconic 1971 album “Tapestry.” Written and performed by King herself, this song exemplifies her talent for crafting heartfelt, introspective lyrics paired with memorable melodies that resonate deeply with listeners.
The album “Tapestry,” which also features classics like “It’s Too Late” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” was a monumental success, both commercially and critically. It topped the Billboard 200 chart for 15 consecutive weeks and remained on the chart for over six years. The album’s success played a significant role in establishing Carole King as a leading figure in the singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s.
“So Far Away” captures the poignant emotions of longing and separation. King’s lyrics express a sense of melancholy and wistfulness as she reflects on the distance between herself and a loved one. The opening lines, “So far away / Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?” immediately set the tone for a song that explores the heartache of being apart from someone dear. The simplicity and directness of King’s words, combined with her emotive vocal delivery, make “So Far Away” a deeply affecting piece.
The song’s arrangement is understated yet powerful, featuring King’s piano accompanied by subtle instrumentation that highlights the song’s reflective mood. The gentle strumming of the guitar and the soft rhythm section provide a delicate backdrop for King’s vocals, allowing her lyrical storytelling to take center stage. This minimalistic approach to the arrangement enhances the song’s emotional impact, making it a timeless classic.
Upon its release, “So Far Away” received widespread acclaim and became one of the most beloved tracks on “Tapestry.” Although it was not released as a single in the United States, its popularity among fans and its frequent airplay on radio stations helped cement its status as a key song in King’s repertoire. The song’s universal theme of longing and its beautifully crafted melody have ensured its enduring appeal over the decades.
“So Far Away” also showcases Carole King’s prowess as a composer and lyricist. Her ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and sincerity has made her one of the most respected and influential songwriters of her generation. The song’s timeless quality is a testament to King’s skill in creating music that speaks to the human experience in a profound and relatable way.
In the context of “Tapestry,” “So Far Away” is part of a cohesive collection of songs that explore themes of love, loss, and introspection. The album’s success and its impact on popular music cannot be overstated, and “So Far Away” is a significant contributor to its legacy. King’s introspective lyrics and evocative melodies continue to resonate with listeners, making “So Far Away” a cherished piece of musical history.
Overall, “So Far Away” by Carole King is a masterful expression of longing and melancholy. Its place on the “Tapestry” album underscores its importance in King’s career and its enduring appeal in the landscape of popular music. The song remains a beautiful reminder of King’s talent for connecting with her audience through her heartfelt and timeless music.
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Lyrics
So far away
Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?
It would be so fine to see your face at my door
Doesn’t help to know you’re just time away
Long ago, I reached for you and there you stood
Holding you again could only do me good
How I wish I could, but you’re so far away
One more song about movin’ along the highway
Can’t say much of anything that’s new
If I could only work this life out my way
I’d rather spend it bein’ close to you
But you’re so far away
Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?
It would be so fine to see your face at my door
Doesn’t help to know you’re so far away
Yeah, you’re so far away
Traveling around sure gets me down and lonely
Nothing else to do but close my mind
I sure hope the road don’t come to own me
There’s so many dreams I’ve yet to find
But you’re so far away
Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?
It would be so fine to see your face at my door
It doesn’t help to know you’re so far away
Yeah, you’re so far away
Hey, you’re so far away
Thank you, you were very kind