“Voyage to Atlantis” by The Isley Brothers, released in 1977, is a love ballad that uses the mythical city of Atlantis as a metaphor. The song blends elements of rock, funk, and soul, characterized by Ronald Isley’s vocals and Ernie Isley’s guitar work.
The lyrics speak of love, commitment, and a journey of self-discovery, with the promise of returning to one’s true love.
In this article, we’ll explore the message conveyed in the song’s lyrics.
“Voyage to Atlantis” Lyrics Meaning
[Verse 1] & [Bridge]
Can I go on my way without you?
Whoa, how can I know?
If I go on my way without you
Whoa, where would I go?
Set sail with me
Misty lady, set my spirit free
New love to find
And though I leave another behind
The narrator expresses uncertainty about continuing life without their lover, questioning where they would go and how they would manage. This reflects the deep emotional connection and dependence on their partner.
[Chorus]
I’ll always (Come back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
The repeated phrase “I’ll always come back to you” emphasizes the narrator’s commitment and loyalty to their lover, regardless of the journey they undertake.
[Verse 2] & [Bridge]
She’s my lady, now and ever
Whoa, how can I know?
Can we go all the way together?
Whoa, let it be so
So we’ll say our last goodbye
And we’ll make it this time
Ho-oh, oh, set sail with me
To a paradise out beyond the sea
The narrator refers to their partner as “my lady, now and ever,” indicating a lasting relationship. They express hope for a shared future together. The imagery of saying goodbye and setting sail to a paradise beyond the sea symbolizes embarking on a new chapter in their relationship.
[Chorus]
Atlantis (Is back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
Atlantis (Is back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
Atlantis (Is back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
Atlantis (Is back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
Atlantis (Is back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
I’ll always (Come back to you)
The introduction of “Atlantis” in the chorus reinforces the metaphorical journey. Atlantis, a legendary lost city, represents an idealized destination for their love. The alternating lines between “Atlantis is back to you” and “I’ll always come back to you” suggest that their love is as enduring and mythical as Atlantis itself.
Deeper Meaning Behind “Voyage to Atlantis”
“Voyage to Atlantis” by The Isley Brothers is a love ballad that uses the mythical lost city of Atlantis as a metaphor for an idealized romantic relationship. The song’s deeper meaning revolves around the themes of eternal love, the pursuit of an ideal, and the promise of return.
The use of Atlantis as a metaphor is significant. Just as Atlantis is a legendary paradise lost beneath the waves, the song speaks to a love that is both perfect and elusive. The “voyage” in the title suggests a journey, implying that true love requires effort and exploration. This journey could be seen as the ups and downs of a relationship, or the search for a soulmate.
The recurring promise in the chorus, “I’ll always come back to you,” speaks to the idea of unwavering commitment and eternal love. This pledge of return could be interpreted in multiple ways: as a promise of fidelity, a commitment to working through relationship challenges, or even as a spiritual concept of souls reuniting across lifetimes.
However, there’s also a bittersweet undertone to the song. Just as Atlantis is unreachable, the perfect love described in the song may be equally unattainable. This interpretation adds a layer of melancholy to the romantic fantasy, suggesting that while we may strive for perfection in love, it remains as elusive as the mythical city itself.
The song’s dreamy, soulful sound complements its lyrical themes, creating an atmosphere of longing and romance that has resonated with listeners for decades. It exemplifies the Isley Brothers’ ability to blend rock and funk elements with deeply emotional lyrics, creating a timeless piece that continues to captivate audiences with its exploration of love’s complexities.
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