Timeless Embers: A Lament for Fading Love | Before We Fall To Stone | Journey

"Before We Fall to Stone" is a power ballad by Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album "Frontiers". The song's lyrics are a reflection on the fleeting nature of life and relationships, with the narrator urging his loved one to cherish the time they have together before it's too late.

The song's title itself is a metaphorical warning, cautioning against the erosion of love and connection that can occur over time. "Before we fall to stone" suggests a state of rigidity and stagnation, where emotions become calcified and relationships grow stale. The narrator is urging his partner to stay present, engaged, and passionate, lest they lose their connection and fall into this state.

Throughout the song, Jonathan Cain's sweeping synthesizers and Steve Perry's soaring vocals paint a picture of a relationship on the brink of collapse. The lyrics are a poignant reminder that time is fleeting, and that even the most seemingly solid relationships can crumble if not tended to. Perry's powerful wail in the chorus, "Don't you know, don't you know, we're running out of time," drives home this sense of urgency.

The song's message is one of vulnerability and intimacy, with the narrator laying bare his emotions and fears. It's a poignant reflection on the human experience, where relationships are constantly ebbing and flowing like the tides. As the song reaches its climax, Perry's voice soars to new heights, as he implores his partner to "hold on" and not let their love slip away.

Ultimately, "Before We Fall to Stone" is a testament to the power of love and connection in the face of uncertainty. It's a reminder that relationships require constant nurturing and attention, lest they fall prey to the ravages of time. As one of Journey's most beloved songs, it continues to resonate with listeners to this day, offering a timeless message of hope and longing.