"Cross Fade" is a song by Ultravox, a British new wave and synth-pop band formed in the late 1970s. Released in 1984, the song is known for its atmospheric and introspective lyrics. While the song does not have a specific narrative or story, it explores themes of introspection, change, and the passage of time. The lyrics suggest a sense of longing and searching for something or someone. The line "Where are you, you're waving, the windows were ablaze" evokes a sense of disorientation and confusion, as if the narrator is trying to find someone or something amidst a chaotic environment. The mentioning of driving, drowning, and drifting in a daze reflects a feeling of being lost or overwhelmed. The act of smoking and talking could signify a form of escape or a way to cope with the uncertainty and instability of life. The line "re-invent the view" suggests a desire to change or reshape one's perspective on the world. It implies a need to find new meaning or purpose amidst a backdrop of constant change and removal. The idea of occupying places just as they are being removed indicates a transient and impermanent existence. The repeated refrain of "take a cross fade" could be interpreted as a call to embrace change and transition. A cross fade is a photographic technique where two images blend into one another, symbolizing a shift from one state to another. It could be seen as a metaphor for accepting the passage of time and adapting to new circumstances. In the second verse, the lyrics mention bypassing places and editing time, suggesting a willingness to leave things behind and move forward. The imagery of waking up and witnessing a young man going down implies a sense of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The closing lines of the song, "Pictures into structures and structures into motion, Cross over into action, over airways, over ocean," present a contrast between static images (pictures) and dynamic movement (motion). It emphasizes the importance of taking action and embracing change rather than remaining in a stagnant state. Overall, "Cross Fade" explores the themes of searching, change, and the transience of life. It encourages the listener to embrace the uncertainties of life and find meaning in the midst of constant flux.
