Meaning of "If You Go Away" by Patricia Kaas

"If You Go Away" explores the emotions and complexities of a relationship on the verge of ending. The singer expresses the feeling of loss and heartbreak that would come if the person they love chooses to leave. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for the happy times they shared together, depicted by the imagery of birds flying in the summer sky and the moon standing still. The mention of the day being young and the night being long suggests that their love was once filled with excitement and passion.

The singer promises to make the person's stay worthwhile, offering to create an unforgettable day and experience for them. They speak of sailing the sun and riding on the rain, symbolizing the beauty and adventure they can have together. The mention of talking to trees and worshiping the wind portrays a deep connection with nature and the desire to explore and appreciate the world.

However, the singer acknowledges that if the person chooses to go, they will understand. They express a bittersweet acceptance of their decision, asking for just enough love to hold onto and reminding the person that they will always have a place in their heart. The emptiness and loneliness that would ensue if they leave are portrayed through the imagery of an empty room and the empty look on the person's face. The singer reveals their vulnerability, admitting that they have been overshadowed by the person's presence, potentially suggesting a lack of individuality within the relationship.

The inclusion of the line "Ne me quitte pas" at the end adds an additional layer of meaning. This phrase, which translates to "Do not leave me" in English, is also the title of a famous song by the Belgian singer Jacques Brel. Its presence implies a deeper connection to the theme of longing and the fear of abandonment.

Overall, "If You Go Away" explores the complexities of love and the fear of losing someone dear. It portrays the conflicting emotions of wanting someone to stay while understanding their need to go, and the vulnerability and longing that accompanies such a decision.