ABBA – Cassandra: A Haunting Ballad of Prophecy and Regret
In the pantheon of pop music, few groups have achieved the enduring success and global recognition of ABBA.
Their infectious melodies, layered harmonies, and captivating lyrics have transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
Among their vast repertoire of hits, “Cassandra” stands out as a unique and thought-provoking ballad, drawing inspiration from the tragic figure of Greek mythology.
Background
Released in 1982 as the B-side to their single “The Day Before You Came,” “Cassandra” presents a stark contrast to the typical ABBA sound.
While the A-side pulsates with upbeat energy, “Cassandra” delves into a realm of melancholic reflection and introspective lyrics.
This somber ballad showcases the versatility of songwriters Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and the captivating vocals of Anni-Frid Lyngstad.
The song’s narrative takes on the voice of Cassandra, a Trojan princess cursed by the god Apollo with the gift of prophecy, but forever condemned to have her warnings fall on deaf ears.
The lyrics, penned by Ulvaeus, capture the anguish of Cassandra’s plight, her premonitions of disaster dismissed as mere dreams.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Down in the street, they’re all singing and shoutingStaying alive though the city is deadHiding their shame behind hollow laughterWhile you are crying alone on your bedPity Cassandra that no one believed youBut then again you were lost from the startNow we must suffer and sell our secretsBargain, playing smart, aching in our heartsSorry Cassandra, I misunderstoodNow the last day is dawningSome of us wanted, but none of us wouldListen to words of warningBut on the darkest of nightsNobody knew how to fightAnd we were caught in our sleepSorry Cassandra, I didn’t believeYou really had the powerI only saw it as dreams you would weaveUntil the final hourSo in the morning your ship will be sailingNow that your father and sister are goneThere is no reason for you to lingerYou’re grieving deeply but still moving onYou know the future is casting a shadowNo one else sees it, but you know your fatePacking your bags, being slow and thoroughKnowing, though you’re late, that ship is sure to waitSorry Cassandra, I misunderstoodNow the last day is dawningSome of us wanted, but none of us wouldListen to words of warningBut on the darkest of nightsNobody knew how to fightAnd we were caught in our sleepSorry Cassandra, I didn’t believeYou really had the powerI only saw it as dreams you would weaveUntil the final hourI watched the ship leaving harbor at sunriseSails almost slack in the cool morning rainShe stood on deck, just a tiny figureRigid and restrained, blue eyes filled with painSorry Cassandra, I misunderstoodNow the last day is dawningSome of us wanted, but none of us wouldListen to words of warningBut on the darkest of nightsNobody knew how to fightAnd we were caught in our sleepSorry Cassandra, I didn’t believeYou really had the powerI only saw it as dreams you would weaveUntil the final hour