About the song
Carole King – So Far Away: A Timeless Ballad of Longing
There’s something undeniably poignant about Carole King’s music, and her 1971 masterpiece, Tapestry, is a testament to her songwriting prowess. One of the standout tracks on this iconic album is “So Far Away”. This heartfelt ballad, with its simple yet evocative lyrics and soothing melody, has resonated with listeners for generations.
“So Far Away” encapsulates the universal feeling of longing and separation. King’s voice, warm and intimate, carries the weight of these emotions as she sings of a love that feels out of reach. The song paints a vivid picture of loneliness and the yearning for connection. The line, “Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?” is particularly striking, as it captures the transient nature of modern life and the challenges it presents to relationships.
The instrumentation on “So Far Away” is understated yet effective. James Taylor’s delicate acoustic guitar accompaniment provides a gentle backdrop for King’s vocals, while the subtle addition of flute adds a touch of melancholy. The arrangement is sparse, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
Musically, “So Far Away” is rooted in the folk and pop traditions of the early 1970s. However, the song’s timeless quality transcends any particular genre. The themes of love, loss, and longing are universal, making it relatable to listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
“So Far Away” is more than just a beautiful song. It’s a snapshot of a particular moment in time, capturing the cultural and emotional landscape of the early 1970s. King’s ability to convey such profound emotions through her music is a testament to her talent as a songwriter.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Carole King or new to her music, “So Far Away” is a must-listen. Its simple beauty and enduring appeal make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Video
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