Meaning of "Tomorrow Is a Long Time" by Odetta

The lyrics of "Tomorrow Is a Long Time" delve deep into themes of longing, loneliness, and the transformative power of love. The singer yearns for the presence of their true love, highlighting how their absence renders everything else in life meaningless. The inability to see oneself reflected in waters or hear the echoes of their footsteps symbolizes a disconnection from self-identity in the absence of love. The beauty found in nature, such as the silver river and sunrise, pales in comparison to the beauty found in the eyes of the beloved. This song captures the essence of yearning for a love that fills a void within the narrator's soul, emphasizing the profound impact of love on one's perception of the world and sense of self.