About the song
ABBA’s heartfelt ballad, “Slipping Through My Fingers,” is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of childhood. Released in 1981 as part of their acclaimed album The Visitors, the song has resonated with audiences for decades, touching upon the universal experience of a mother’s love and the bittersweet realization of her child’s growing independence.
Written by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, the song draws inspiration from the personal lives of the band members. Ulvaeus’ daughter, Linda, was just seven years old at the time of the song’s creation, and her rapid development undoubtedly fueled the lyrical content. The song captures the emotional turmoil experienced by a mother as she witnesses her child’s transition from a carefree young girl to a more self-sufficient individual.
The title itself, “Slipping Through My Fingers,” perfectly encapsulates the central theme of the song. It conveys a sense of loss and helplessness as a mother watches her child grow increasingly distant, both physically and emotionally. The lyrics are filled with poignant imagery, such as “I remember the day you were born, a tiny little girl” and “The years go by so quickly, it’s hard to believe.” These lines evoke a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet longing, reminding listeners of the preciousness of childhood moments.
Agnetha Fältskog’s vocals are a highlight of the song, delivering a powerful and emotional performance. Her voice conveys a mixture of love, sadness, and resignation, capturing the depth of the mother’s feelings. The melody is both haunting and beautiful, complementing the lyrical content and creating a timeless atmosphere.
While “Slipping Through My Fingers” may not have been a commercial success in many parts of the world, it has garnered a dedicated following and remains a beloved classic. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, reminding us of the importance of cherishing the precious moments we share with our loved ones.
Video
Lyrics
Schoolbag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning
Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile
I watch her go with a surge of that well-known sadness
And i have to sit down for a while
The feeling that i’m losing her forever
And without really entering her world
I’m glad whenever i can share her laughter
That funny little girlSlipping through my fingers all the time
I try to capture every minute
The feeling in it
Slipping through my fingers all the time
Do i really see what’s in her mind
Each time i think i’m close to knowing
She keeps on growing
Slipping through my fingers all the timeSleep in our eyes, her and me at the breakfast table
Barely awake, i let precious time go by
Then when she’s gone there’s that odd melancholy feeling
And a sense of guilt i can’t deny
What happened to the wonderful adventures
The places i had planned for us to go
(slipping through my fingers all the time)
Well, some of that we did but most we didn’t
And why i just don’t knowSlipping through my fingers all the time
I try to capture every minute
The feeling in it
Slipping through my fingers all the time
Do i really see what’s in her mind
Each time i think i’m close to knowing
She keeps on growing
Slipping through my fingers all the timeSometimes i wish that i could freeze the picture
And save it from the funny tricks of time
Slipping through my fingers…Slipping through my fingers all the time
Schoolbag in hand she leaves home in the early morning
Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile…