Meaning of "Souvenir" by Billy Joel

In "Souvenir," Billy Joel explores the ephemeral nature of memories and the bittersweet reality that even the most cherished moments eventually fade away. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection, urging listeners to treasure the memories they have while acknowledging that they will inevitably diminish. The mention of a "picture postcard" and "folded stub" suggests tangible reminders of past experiences that we hold onto, but these physical items ultimately become relics of the past. The act of filing away photographs serves as a metaphor for how we attempt to preserve and cling to memories, yet even these mementos are destined to deteriorate and turn to dust.

Joel's statement, "But that's the price you pay," hints at the inherent trade-off between the joy of making memories and the sadness of watching them fade. While we long to hold onto fleeting moments, the passage of time erodes even our most treasured recollections. The line "For every year's a souvenir" suggests that every passing year becomes another memory to be cherished, but this sentiment is tainted by its inevitable decay. The concept of a souvenir usually denotes an object collected during a particular experience to serve as a lasting reminder, but here Joel presents the passage of time itself as the souvenir, something intangible and elusive.

The repetition of the phrase "Every year's a souvenir That slowly fades away" highlights the song's main theme, emphasizing the passing of time and the gradual erosion of memories. It serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate the present moment and hold onto memories while we can. The lyrics encourage listeners to find meaning in the impermanence of life, recognizing that it is part of the beauty and fragility of the human experience.