Echoes of Emotion: Exploring Elvis Presley's 'This Is the Story'
(watch the video below)
"This Is the Story" is a poignant and soul-stirring song performed by the legendary Elvis Presley, released in 1972 as part of his album "Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2." Written by Chris Arnold, David Martin, and Geoff Morrow, the song encapsulates themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, all delivered with Presley's characteristic passion and depth.
At its core, "This Is the Story" narrates the tale of a man reflecting on the journey of his life, reminiscing about past loves and experiences while grappling with the inevitability of change. Through its evocative lyrics and heartfelt melody, the song invites listeners to delve into the complexities of human emotions and the universal quest for meaning and connection.
The opening lines of the song immediately set the introspective tone, as Presley croons, "This is the story of a man / Who loved and lost and lived to love again." Here, we are introduced to the protagonist, whose life unfolds before us like chapters in a book, each filled with its own joys and sorrows. The use of the third-person narrative allows listeners to empathize with the protagonist's journey, as if observing it from a distance while still feeling deeply connected to his experiences.
Throughout the song, Presley's emotive vocals are accompanied by a soulful arrangement of instruments, including gentle guitar strums and stirring strings, which enhance the emotional resonance of the lyrics. The music swells and recedes like the ebb and flow of memories, carrying listeners along on a journey through the highs and lows of the protagonist's life.
As the song progresses, we witness the protagonist grappling with the passage of time and the inevitability of change. He reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the bittersweet memories of relationships that have come and gone. Lines such as "He loved her tenderly / She left him sadly" capture the poignant essence of love's transience, reminding us of the fragility of human connections.
Yet, amidst the melancholy, there is also a sense of resilience and hope that permeates the song. The protagonist's journey is not defined solely by loss and longing but by the enduring spirit of love that sustains him through life's trials. He may have loved and lost, but he has also found the strength to love again, embracing each new chapter with an open heart.
One of the most powerful aspects of "This Is the Story" is its ability to resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. The themes explored in the song – love, loss, resilience – are universal experiences that transcend time and place. Whether we have experienced heartbreak ourselves or witnessed it in others, the song speaks to the profound emotional truths that shape the human condition.
Moreover, Presley's iconic voice lends an added layer of authenticity and vulnerability to the song, infusing each word with raw emotion and sincerity. His ability to convey the depths of human feeling through his vocal delivery is what sets him apart as one of the greatest interpreters of song in musical history.
Beyond its lyrical and musical brilliance, "This Is the Story" also serves as a testament to Elvis Presley's enduring legacy as a cultural icon. Even decades after its release, the song continues to captivate audiences around the world, reaffirming Presley's status as the "King of Rock and Roll."
In conclusion, "This Is the Story" stands as a timeless masterpiece that captures the essence of the human experience with unparalleled depth and poignancy. Through its evocative lyrics, soul-stirring melody, and Elvis Presley's incomparable vocals, the song invites listeners to contemplate the intricacies of love, loss, and the passage of time. It is a testament to the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls, transcending boundaries and resonating across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics !
I play the song, it was our own
Your photograph's by my side
I know I can't forget you
So I don't even try
The note you left is in my hand
I read again what you say
You're sorry but you love him
And you've both gone away
This is the story of a man
Whose world has fallen apart
And it's the story
That is breaking my heart
An open fire, our favorite chair
I get a book from the shelf
But the words I am reading
Could apply to myself
This is the story of a man
Whose world has fallen apart
And it's the story
That is breaking my heart
Yes, it's the story that is breaking my heart
Yes, it's the story that is breaking my heart
Yes, it's the story that is breaking my heart
