☝️ Key Points
- The singer appeals to his conversation partner to listen to him and consider his perspective in arguments.
- He emphasizes that through communication and understanding, their conflicts can be resolved.
- The short duration of life is presented as an argument against fighting and in favor of harmony and understanding.
- In the text, fighting is not only seen as wasted time, but also almost as a crime against harmony and peace in a relationship.
- The repeated refrain 'We can work it out' represents a constant reminder and hope that problems in a relationship can be solved.
Interpretation
The lyrics of 'We Can Work It Out' by
the Beatles are about the difficulties that can arise in a relationship or friendship. The singer urges his conversation partner to see the situation from his perspective ("Try to see it my way"). He emphasizes that, despite their different views, they are capable of finding a solution to their problems ("We can work it out"). The lyrics also highlight the importance of communication and understanding in conflict situations, by expressing that they can resolve their differences if they speak openly and honestly with each other ("Think of what I'm saying, we can work it out and get it straight or say good night").
The singer also points out how short life is and that there is no time for fussing and fighting ("Life is very short and there's no time for fussing and fighting my friend"). He considers disputes as wasted time and almost as a crime ("I have always thought that it's a crime"). This shows that he values harmony and peace in human relationships.
In the last verses, the singer repeats his request to his conversation partner to see things from his perspective and warns of the possible consequences if they can't resolve their differences ("There's a chance that we might fall apart before too long"). The repeated refrain "We can work it out" serves as a constant reminder and hope that they are capable of solving their problems.