Meaning of "Evening Falls..." by Enya

"Evening Falls..." explores themes of introspection, longing, and the search for one's true place in the world. The opening lines set a contemplative mood, as evening falls and the daylight fades. The fading light can symbolize the passage of time or the transition from consciousness to a dreamlike state. The speaker questions their reality, wondering if they are sleeping. This ambiguity suggests a sense of dissatisfaction or disconnection from their current circumstances.

The repeated phrase "Close to home, feeling so far away" emphasizes the paradoxical feeling of being both physically close to one's home but emotionally distant. It conveys a longing for a deeper connection or a sense of belonging. The speaker is wrestling with a desire to be grounded and rooted, while simultaneously feeling adrift and searching for answers.

The appearance of a shadow from another world adds an element of mystery to the lyrics. This shadow represents an unknown or subconscious realm that can't be fully understood or explored by others. There is a yearning to be carried away to this other world, where the speaker believes they can find respite and answers. It symbolizes a desire to escape from the limitations and constraints of their current reality.

The lines "Forever searching, never right / I am lost in oceans of night" capture the speaker's continual quest for something that feels elusive. They feel lost and submerged in darkness, seeking to find a sense of purpose or meaning. The repetition of the word "forever" adds to the sense of longing and the idea that this search is ongoing and never-ending.

The song also touches on the theme of memory and the yearning to recapture the past. The speaker hopes to find the memories they left behind, suggesting a longing for a sense of identity or a connection to their own history. Memories can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, which the speaker desperately seeks.

The final lines of the song provide a glimmer of hope and a resolution to the internal struggle. The speaker realizes that home is not a physical place but a state of mind and being. They know the way back to their true self, no matter how far away they may feel. This realization brings a sense of relief and acceptance, as they come to terms with the uncertainty and longing that permeates the earlier verses.