"Those Were The Days" is a song originally composed in the early 1960s by Boris Fomin, with lyrics in Russian written by Konstantin Podrevsky. The English version was later adapted and popularized by Engelbert Humperdinck in 1968. The song reminisces about the past, nostalgia, and the passing of time. The lyrics tell the story of a group of friends who used to meet at a tavern, where they would laugh, dream, and imagine a future filled with great achievements. They believed that the good times would never end, and they would always sing, dance, and live life to the fullest. They were young and full of confidence, believing they had the power to overcome any challenge that came their way. However, as time goes by, the friends lose their hopeful and idealistic outlook on life. The years rush past them, and they lose touch with one another. If they happen to meet again at the tavern, they see a reflection of who they used to be in the faces of their friends. They reminisce about the days when they believed in an everlasting youth and the power to make their dreams come true. As the song progresses, the narrator stands before the tavern alone and sees a different person in the mirror. The passage of time has transformed them into someone they may not have expected. Yet, when they hear familiar laughter and see their friend's face, they are reminded that although they may have grown older, the dreams and desires of their heart have not changed. The meaning of "Those Were The Days" lies in the reflection of the passage of time and the longing for the carefree and hopeful days of youth. It serves as a reminder to cherish the memories and friendships, as well as the dreams and ideals of the past, even as life moves forward.
