Judy Collins – Both Sides Now

About the Song

“Both Sides Now” by Judy Collins is a poignant, timeless song that captures the complexity of life and love through a lens of introspection and poetic beauty. Originally written by Joni Mitchell, the song was famously performed by Judy Collins in 1967, becoming one of her most iconic recordings and a defining moment in her career. With her clear, emotive voice and the delicate orchestral arrangement, Collins brings a deep, reflective quality to the song that resonates deeply with listeners, particularly those who appreciate the sophistication and emotional depth of 1960s folk music.

At its heart, “Both Sides Now” is a meditation on life’s contradictions and the inevitable passage of time. The lyrics speak of the experience of seeing the world from different perspectives, symbolized by the recurring imagery of clouds, love, and life. The protagonist starts out with an idealistic, youthful view of life, only to come to terms with the complexities and disappointments that accompany growing older. Judy Collins’ interpretation of Mitchell’s lyrics adds an extra layer of emotion, as her voice carries both a sense of wisdom and vulnerability, making the song feel deeply personal and universal at the same time.

The arrangement of “Both Sides Now” is as graceful and understated as Collins’ vocal delivery. The lush orchestration, which includes strings and subtle instrumentation, creates an atmosphere that complements the song’s reflective mood, allowing the lyrics to remain the focal point. The gentle, almost ethereal musical backdrop enhances the poignancy of the narrative, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with life’s ups and downs.

For many, “Both Sides Now” is a song that grows richer with age, as it speaks to the evolving nature of our understanding of love, loss, and the passage of time. Judy Collins’ rendition remains a classic not only because of its stunning performance but also because it encapsulates the emotional depth and wisdom of the 1960s folk music scene. Whether you’re revisiting it with nostalgia or hearing it for the first time, “Both Sides Now” continues to resonate as a song that speaks to the heart of the human experience.

Video 

Lyrics: Both Sides Now

Bows and flows of angel hair
And ice cream castles in the air
And feathered canyons everywhere
I’ve looked at clouds that way

But now they only block the sun
They rain and snow on everyone
So many things I would have done
But clouds got in my way

I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down and still somehow
It’s cloud’s illusions I recall
I really don’t know clouds at all

Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels
The dizzy dancing way you feel
When every fairy tale comes real
I’ve looked at love that way

But now it’s just another show
You leave ’em laughing when you go
And if you care don’t let them know
Don’t give yourself away

I’ve looked at love from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It’s love’s illusions I recall
I really don’t know love at all

Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say “I love you” right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I’ve looked at life that way

But now old friends are acting strange
They shake their heads, they say I’ve changed
Well something’s lost but something’s gained
In living every day

I’ve looked at life from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It’s life’s illusions I recall
I really don’t know life at all