Fading Vitality: A Lament for Lost Youth | Older | George Michael

George Michael's song "Older" is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of youth. Released in 1996, the song was part of his highly acclaimed album "Older", which marked a significant departure from his earlier work with Wham!. At its core, "Older" is a melancholic ode to the elusiveness of youthful vitality, as captured by the lyrics: "I'm older than I previously thought / But my life's still mine for me to sort."

The song's narrative revolves around the theme of growing up and the impermanence of youth. George Michael's soulful vocals convey a sense of longing and resignation as he acknowledges the inevitability of aging. "Time can bring us down, time can slip away / What's left is all we have, and I'm older now." The lyrics are an intimate portrait of someone grappling with the reality of getting older, yet still clinging to the vestiges of their youth.

Musically, "Older" is a masterclass in atmospheric production. George Michael's soaring vocals are set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation, featuring subtle keyboard textures and understated guitar work. The song's haunting melody creates a sense of introspective contemplation, perfectly capturing the song's themes of nostalgia and wistfulness.

Throughout the song, George Michael's lyrics offer a candid appraisal of the human experience. He laments the loss of youthful energy, yet finds solace in the wisdom that comes with age. "I'm older than I previously thought / But my life's still mine for me to sort." Ultimately, "Older" is a beautifully crafted song that distills the complexities of growing up into a poignant and relatable anthem.