Yesterday

The song 'Yesterday' by The Beatles is a poignant reflection on loss and change. Released in 1965, it quickly became one of the band's most famous ballads, showcasing a more introspective and melancholic side of their songwriting. The lyrics, penned by Paul McCartney, speak to the universal experience of looking back on a time before a significant life change, often with a sense of longing and regret.

The opening lines set the tone for the entire song, as McCartney sings about how his 'troubles seemed so far away' and now it appears they are here to stay. This contrast between the past and present is a powerful theme throughout the song, emphasizing the impact of a sudden negative event. The repeated phrase 'I believe in yesterday' suggests a desire to return to a simpler time before this event occurred. The 'shadow hanging over me' metaphorically represents the weight of his current troubles and the darkness they cast on his life.

The specific event that triggered this change is the departure of a loved one, as indicated by the lines 'Why she had to go? I don't know, She wouldn't say.' The lack of explanation for the departure adds to the singer's confusion and pain. The song's structure, with its gentle, melancholic melody, complements the wistful lyrics. 'Yesterday' remains a timeless piece, resonating with anyone who has experienced loss and the wish to turn back time to a moment when life was simpler and love was 'an easy game to play.'