About the song
Amanda McBroom’s “The Rose” is a poignant ballad that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its simple yet evocative lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Originally written as a demo for a musical, the song gained widespread recognition when Bette Midler performed it in the 1979 film *The Rose*. Midler’s heartfelt rendition, paired with the film’s dramatic narrative, cemented “The Rose” as a classic.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a range of emotions. The opening lines, “Some say love it is a rose,” immediately set a romantic tone. However, the subsequent verses delve into the complexities of love, exploring themes of fragility, vulnerability, and the inevitability of loss. The metaphor of the rose, a symbol of beauty and passion, is used to convey the fleeting nature of love and the pain of its absence.
McBroom’s melodic composition complements the lyrical themes, creating a haunting and evocative atmosphere. The song’s slow tempo and minor key contribute to its melancholic tone, while the soaring chorus provides a moment of catharsis. The simplicity of the arrangement, with just piano and vocals, allows the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
“The Rose” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, demonstrating its timeless appeal. Conway Twitty’s country version and Westlife’s pop rendition both achieved commercial success, showcasing the song’s versatility. Nana Mouskouri’s German version, “Die Rose,” further expanded its reach, solidifying its status as an international classic.
In conclusion, “The Rose” is a poignant and enduring ballad that continues to captivate audiences. Its evocative lyrics, haunting melody, and timeless themes have made it a beloved classic in the world of popular music. Whether performed by a seasoned veteran or a rising star, the song’s emotional resonance remains as powerful today as it was when it first appeared on the scene.
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Lyrics
Some say love, it is a river
And that it drowns the tender reed
And some say love, it’s like a razor
And that it leaves your soul to bleed
Some say love, it is a hunger
An endless aching need
I say love, it is a flower
And you, it’s only seed
It’s the heart afraid of breaking
That never learns to dance
It’s the dream afraid of waking
That never takes the chance
It’s the one who won’t be taken
Who cannot seem to give
And the soul, afraid of dyin’
That never learns to live
When the night has been too lonely
And the road has been too long
And you think that love is only
For the lucky and the strong
Just remember, in the winter
Far beneath the bitter snows
Lies the seed, that with the sun’s love
In the spring, becomes the rose