About The Song

In the realm of pop music, few bands have achieved the enduring legacy and global recognition of ABBA. The Swedish quartet, comprised of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious melodies, energetic stage presence, and undeniable fashion sense. Their music transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, uniting listeners across generations and continents. Among their extensive repertoire of hits, “Disillusion” stands out as a poignant ballad that delves into the depths of heartbreak and self-discovery.

Released in 1978 as part of the album Arrival, “Disillusion” showcases ABBA’s mastery of crafting songs that resonate emotionally. The opening piano chords set a melancholic tone, perfectly complementing the song’s introspective lyrics. Agnetha’s voice, often characterized by its sweetness and clarity, takes on a more vulnerable quality as she narrates the story of a love that has crumbled under the weight of disillusionment.

The verses paint a vivid picture of a relationship that has lost its spark. The protagonist laments the fading passion, the broken promises, and the erosion of trust. The lyrics, “I thought we were meant to be/But now I’m starting to see/That you’re not the one for me,” encapsulate the realization that the love they once believed in was merely an illusion.

As the song progresses, the protagonist grapples with the emotional fallout of this disillusionment. The chorus, “Disillusion, disillusion/I’m living in an illusion/I thought I knew you/But I was wrong, it’s true,” serves as a powerful refrain, emphasizing the depth of the heartbreak and the shattering of expectations.

Related:   ABBA – When I Kissed the Teacher

Despite the pain and disappointment, the song also hints at a glimmer of hope for personal growth. The protagonist acknowledges their vulnerability and the need to move on from this disillusioned relationship. The lyrics, “I’ll pick up the pieces of my broken heart/And start anew, make a brand new start,” suggest a determination to rebuild and emerge stronger from this experience.

Disillusion” concludes with a sense of acceptance and resilience. The protagonist recognizes that while love may have failed them, they possess the strength to overcome this heartbreak and find happiness once again. The final lines, “I’ll never forget the way you made me feel/But now it’s time to say goodbye/Disillusion, disillusion,” serve as a poignant farewell to the illusion of love and a declaration of self-belief.

With its heartfelt lyrics, melancholic melody, and Agnetha’s emotive vocals, “Disillusion” stands as a testament to ABBA’s ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. It is a song that captures the universal experience of heartbreak and offers a message of hope and resilience. Through its exploration of disillusionment and self-discovery, “Disillusion” remains a timeless ballad that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.

Video

Lyric

Changing, moving, in a circleI can see your face in all of my dreamsSmiling, laughing, from the shadowsWhen I hear your voice I know what it meansI know it doesn’t matter just how hard I tryYou’re all the reason for my lifeDisillusion, disillusion’s all you left for me
How can I forget you when my world is breaking down?You’re all I had, you’re all I wantDisillusion, disillusions now, that’s all I have
Wishing, hoping, chasing shadowsDid I see your face somewhere in the crowd?Thinking, wondering, what you’re doingI can’t stop myself from crying out loudThey say my wound will heal and only leave a scarBut then, they’d never shared our loveDisillusion, disillusion’s all you left for me
How can I forget you when my world is breaking down?You’re all I had, you’re all I wantDisillusion, disillusions now, that’s all I haveDisillusion, disillusions now, that’s all I have