Meaning of "Only Time" by Enya

"Only Time" by Enya delves into the ephemeral nature of life, love, and the passage of time. It explores the unpredictable journey that love takes and the uncertainty that accompanies it. The song's repetitive phrase, "who can say," emphasizes the enigmatic aspect of love and the inability to precisely determine its course. Enya raises questions about the growth and decline of love, acknowledging that the heart's choices and the emotions it experiences are mysterious and often incomprehensible. Love, like the roads we traverse, can lead to unexpected destinations. The lyrics suggest that love may bring joy and contentment, but it can also cause heartache and sorrow, leaving one puzzled as to why the heart sighs and cries.

Enya also contemplates the cyclical nature of life and the perpetual passage of time, illustrated through the repetition of "only time." This phrase implies that time is the ultimate arbiter of all things, holding the answers to the questions posed throughout the song. It suggests that time has the power to heal wounds, provide clarity, and reveal the truth about love. The lyrics further ponder whether love and its potential growth or deterioration are influenced by the meeting of paths, implying that chance encounters or circumstances may shape the course of love.

Ultimately, "Only Time" conveys a sense of acceptance and surrender to the unknown. It recognizes that some answers cannot be obtained immediately and emphasizes the need for patience and trust in allowing time to unveil the mysteries of life and love.