"The Way We Were / Try To Remember" is a song performed by Gladys Knight & The Pips. The song is a medley of two separate songs: "The Way We Were" by Barbra Streisand and "Try To Remember" from the musical "The Fantasticks." The lyrics of the song reflect on the nostalgia and longing for the past. It begins by acknowledging that people often talk about the "good old days" and suggests that the current moment will eventually become the good old days for future generations. The lyrics then delve into the yearning for a simpler time, specifically mentioning September as a symbol of a slower, more peaceful life. The singer implores the listeners to remember and to follow if they do remember. The chorus reflects on the tendency to view the past through rose-colored glasses, perceiving it as better and idyllic. The imagery of warmer winters, greener grass, bluer skies, and brighter smiles captures the nostalgia for a time that may have seemed simpler and happier. The lyrics question whether the past truly was simpler or if time has romanticized it. As the song progresses, it touches upon memories being like the corners of one's mind, evoking misty watercolor memories. The scattered pictures and smiles left behind highlight the significance of cherished moments and connections with others. The chorus repeats, emphasizing the longing to relive the past and questioning if we would make different choices if given the chance. The lyrics maintain a sense of ambiguity, leaving it open to interpretation whether reliving the past would be desirable. The final verse acknowledges that memories can be both beautiful and painful. Some memories may be too painful to remember, leading individuals to choose to forget them. However, it is the laughter, the joyful moments, that will be remembered whenever the past is recalled. Overall, the song explores themes of nostalgia, reflection on the passage of time, and the bittersweet nature of memories. It encourages listeners to cherish and appreciate the present while acknowledging the importance of the past in shaping who we are.
