About the song
ABBA’s “When All Is Said and Done” is a poignant ballad that offers a glimpse into the emotional turmoil and resilience that often accompany the end of a relationship. Released in 1981 as part of their album The Visitors, this track stands as a testament to the Swedish group’s ability to craft timeless music that resonates deeply with listeners.
Penned by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the song was inspired by the recent divorce of Benny and Frida, two of ABBA’s founding members. This personal connection infuses the lyrics with a raw authenticity that is palpable in every note. As Frida herself stated, “All my sadness was captured in the song.”
Thematically, “When All Is Said and Done” explores the aftermath of a breakup. The lyrics paint a picture of a person coming to terms with the end of a love affair. It’s a song about acceptance, about understanding that some things simply cannot be. Yet, there’s also a sense of hope and determination as the narrator resolves to move forward.
Musically, the track is a beautiful blend of melancholy and hope. The gentle piano melody, combined with the sweeping strings and Agnetha Fältskog’s soulful vocals, creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics. The song’s arrangement is both understated and effective, allowing the emotional core of the lyrics to shine through.
Despite its emotional depth, “When All Is Said and Done” is not a wallowing in self-pity. Instead, it’s a celebration of human resilience and the ability to find strength even in the darkest of times. This theme of perseverance is particularly evident in the chorus, where the narrator declares, “When all is said and done, I’ll still carry on.”
It’s interesting to note that while “When All Is Said and Done” was initially considered a strong contender for a single release, it was ultimately overshadowed by “One of Us.” However, the song did find success in several markets, including the United States, where it became ABBA’s final Top 30 hit.
In recent years, the song has gained renewed attention thanks to its inclusion in the soundtrack of the hit musical Mamma Mia! This has helped introduce a new generation of fans to the timeless beauty of “When All Is Said and Done.”
For those who have experienced heartbreak, “When All Is Said and Done” offers a comforting reminder that even the most painful experiences can lead to personal growth. It’s a song that has resonated with listeners for decades, and it continues to do so today.
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Lyrics
Here’s to us, one more toast, and then we’ll pay the bill
Deep inside, both of us can feel the autumn chill
Birds of passage, you and me
We fly instinctively
When the summer’s over and the dark clouds hide the sun
Neither you nor I’m to blame when all is said and done
In our lives, we have walked some strange and lonely treks
Slightly worn, but dignified, and not too old for sex
We’re still striving for the sky
No taste for humble pie
Thanks for all your generous love, and thanks for all the fun
Neither you nor I’m to blame when all is said and done
It’s so strange, when you’re down, and lying on the floor
How you rise, shake your head, get up and ask for more
Clear-headed and open-eyed
With nothing left untried
Standing calmly at the crossroads, no desire to run
There’s no hurry anymore when all is said and done
Standing calmly at the crossroads, no desire to run
There’s no hurry anymore when all is said and done