Meaning of "As Tears Go By" by Avenged Sevenfold

"As Tears Go By" explores the theme of alienation and the loss of innocence. The narrator is in a state of introspection, observing the joy and innocence of children playing but feeling disconnected from it. The repetition of "I sit and watch" highlights the passive role of the narrator, who is both physically and emotionally removed from the happiness surrounding them. The phrase "My riches can't buy everything" suggests that despite material wealth, the narrator still lacks true happiness and fulfillment. This highlights the emptiness that can come with a superficial lifestyle and serves as a critique of the pursuit of material possessions as a means of finding happiness.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of nostalgia and the bittersweet longing for the past. The line "Doing things I used to do, they think are new" suggests that the narrator has lost touch with the innocence and simplicity of their own childhood. The contrast between their own experiences and the children's highlights a sense of time passing and the loss of youthful vitality. This can be seen as a reflection on the inevitability of growing older and the feeling of being left behind as life moves forward.

Overall, "As Tears Go By" speaks to the universal human experience of longing for a deeper connection and the struggle to find fulfillment in a world that often prioritizes superficiality and material gain. The lyrics convey a sense of isolation and melancholy, portraying the narrator as an observer of life rather than an active participant. It serves as a reminder of the importance of finding meaning and purpose beyond the surface level, and the potential emptiness that can come from a life focused solely on outer achievements and possessions.