Gloria Gaynor - I Will Survive Lyrics
Lyrics
At first I was afraid, I was petrified
Kept thinkin' I could never live without you by my side
But then I spent so many nights thinking how you did me wrong
And I grew strong
And I learned how to get along
And so you're back from outer space
I just walked in to find you here with that sad look upon your face
I should have changed that stupid lock
I should have made you leave your key
If I had known for just one second you'd be back to bother me
Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Did you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die
Oh no not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
And I've got all my love to give
And I'll survive
I will survive
Hey, hey
It took all the strength I had not to fall apart
Kept tryin' hard to mend the pieces of my broken heart
And I spent oh so many nights just feeling sorry for myself
I used to cry, but now I hold my head up high
And you see me, somebody new
I'm not that chained up little person still in love with you
And so you felt like dropping in and just expect me to be free
But now I'm savin' all my lovin' for someone who's lovin' me
Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to break me with goodbye
Did you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die
Oh no not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
I've got all my love to give
And I'll survive
I will survive
Oh
Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to break me with goodbye
Did you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die
Oh no not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
I've got all my love to give
And I'll survive
I will survive
I will survive
Video
Gloria Gaynor - I Will Survive
Meaning & Inspiration
Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive," though released in its modern iteration on July 22, 2022, is a timeless anthem that speaks to a profound resilience rooted in a strength that transcends personal circumstances. The narrative of this powerful song, at its core, is an declaration of triumph over adversity, a testament to finding one's footing after being cast aside and facing immense hurt. It’s the story of a spirit that, after being broken, gathers the pieces and stands tall, not just to exist, but to thrive. This isn't merely a song about romantic heartbreak; it’s a broader metaphor for overcoming any challenge that seeks to diminish one's value or hope.
The enduring message of "I Will Survive" finds a deep resonance within biblical teachings. The song’s powerful declaration of self-reliance and inner fortitude echoes the assurance found in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” While not overtly a Christian song, Gaynor’s performance embodies this very principle, demonstrating an unshakeable belief in one's capacity to endure and conquer. It mirrors the Psalmist's cry in Psalm 27:14, which urges, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord,” suggesting that true strength is often cultivated in moments of waiting and trusting in a power greater than oneself. The song's progression from vulnerability to empowerment is a spiritual journey in itself, much like David's transformation from a shepherd boy to a king, relying on God’s favor through every trial. It embodies the spirit of 1 Corinthians 10:13, which promises that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, and that with Him, we will always find a way out. The unwavering commitment to moving forward, despite the pain of the past, aligns with the encouragement in Isaiah 43:18-19: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" This is the essence of "I Will Survive" – a vibrant assertion of renewal and a refusal to be defined by past suffering. The song serves as a powerful reminder that even in our weakest moments, we possess an inherent capacity for growth and an unyielding spirit that, when nurtured, allows us to not only endure but to flourish, a testament to the enduring strength that is available to all who choose to believe in themselves and in the guiding hand of providence.