About the song
“Alone Again (Naturally)” stands as a poignant testament to the profound emotional impact a song can wield. Penned by Irish singer-songwriter Gilbert O’Sullivan and released in 1972, this melancholic ballad swiftly ascended global music charts, leaving an indelible mark on listeners worldwide. Although initially excluded from O’Sullivan’s 1972 album ‘Back to Front,’ subsequent reissues have rightfully integrated it, often supplanting the track “Clair.”
In the United States, the song’s reception was nothing short of meteoric. It claimed the top spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 for six non-consecutive weeks between late July and early September 1972, eventually securing the number two slot in the year-end rankings. Its lyrical depth and haunting melody resonated deeply, propelling sales to over two million copies—a testament to its universal appeal and emotional resonance.
Beyond its commercial success, “Alone Again (Naturally)” sparked significant legal precedent in 1991. A landmark court case underscored that unauthorized sampling of music constitutes copyright infringement, solidifying its impact beyond the realm of music into legal and cultural arenas.
Lyrically, the song delves into themes of solitude and existential questioning. O’Sullivan’s narrative unfolds with stark vulnerability: contemplating suicide after being jilted at the altar, grappling with existential doubts about the divine, and mourning the loss of his parents. Despite speculation about its autobiographical elements, O’Sullivan clarified that while the emotions are universal, the specific events depicted diverge from his personal history.
Critically acclaimed and widely broadcasted, “Alone Again (Naturally)” garnered praise from peers and critics alike. Neil Diamond and Neil Sedaka, both renowned artists in their own right, commended its lyrical maturity, with Diamond expressing disbelief that such profound introspection could emanate from a 21-year-old songwriter.
Charting both emotional and musical territories, the song also secured O’Sullivan’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and composer. Its enduring legacy underscores its place not only in musical history but also as a touchstone for exploring the depths of human emotion through song.
Video
Lyrics
In a little while from now
If I’m not feeling any less sour
I promise myself to treat myself
And visit a nearby tower
And climbing to the top
Will throw myself off
In an effort to
Make it clear to whoever
Wants to know what it’s like when you’re shattered
Left standing in the lurch at a church
Were people saying, My God, that’s tough
She stood him up
No point in us remaining
We may as well go home
As I did on my own
Alone again, naturally
To think that only yesterday
I was cheerful, bright and gay
Looking forward to who wouldn’t do
The role I was about to play
But as if to knock me down
Reality came around
And without so much as a mere touch
Cut me into little pieces
Leaving me to doubt
Talk about, God in His mercy
Oh, if he really does exist
Why did he desert me
In my hour of need
I truly am indeed
Alone again, naturally
It seems to me that
There are more hearts broken in the world
That can’t be mended
Left unattended
What do we do
What do we do
Alone again, naturally
Looking back over the years
And whatever else that appears
I remember I cried when my father died
Never wishing to hide the tears
And at sixty-five years old
My mother, God rest her soul
Couldn’t understand why the only man
She had ever loved had been taken
Leaving her to start
With a heart so badly broken
Despite encouragement from me
No words were ever spoken
And when she passed away
I cried and cried all day
Alone again, naturally
Alone again, naturally