If ever I see you again

Roberta Flack's song 'If Ever I See You Again' is a poignant exploration of lost love and the hope for reconciliation. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and reflection, as the narrator contemplates the possibility of rekindling a past relationship. The opening lines reveal a lifetime of wondering and regret, suggesting that the separation was a significant and impactful event. The narrator acknowledges that while many aspects of life remain unchanged, the desire to reunite with their lost love persists as a constant, unfulfilled wish.

The chorus of the song is particularly evocative, expressing a hopeful yet cautious optimism. The narrator dreams of a future encounter where things might be different, where the mistakes of the past could be avoided, and where the farewell might be temporary rather than permanent. This hope is encapsulated in the lines, 'Maybe this time it will work out alright, maybe this we won't say goodbye but only goodnight.' The use of 'goodnight' instead of 'goodbye' symbolizes a temporary parting, filled with the promise of a new beginning and a love that endures.

The imagery in the song is intimate and tender, particularly in the verse describing a 'warm sleepy morning' and the feeling of closeness with the loved one. These moments are cherished memories that the narrator holds onto, providing comfort and a sense of continuity despite the physical absence of the loved one. The dream mentioned in the lyrics serves as a metaphor for the enduring hope and the emotional connection that remains strong, even in separation. Roberta Flack's soulful delivery adds depth to the song, making it a heartfelt ode to the enduring power of love and the human desire for second chances.