Cassandra

ABBA · Thank You for the Music [1994]

Abba - Cassandra



Down in the street they're all singing and shouting

Staying alive though the city is dead

Hiding their shame behind hollow laughter

While you are crying alone on your bed



Pity Cassandra that no one believed you

But then again you were lost from the start

Now we must suffer and sell our secrets

Bargain, playing smart, aching in our hearts



Sorry Cassandra I misunderstood

Now the last day is dawning

Some of us wanted but none of us could

Listen to words of warning

But on the darkest of nights

Nobody knew how to fight

And we were caught in our sleep

Sorry Cassandra I didn't believe

You really had the power

I only saw it as dreams you would weave

Until the final hour



So in the morning your ship will be sailing

Now that your father and sister are gone

There is no reason for you to linger

You're grieving deeply but still moving on

You know the future is casting a shadow

No one else sees it but you know your fate

Packing your bags, being slow and thorough

Knowing, though you're late, that ship is sure to wait



Sorry Cassandra I misunderstood

Now the last day is dawning

Some of us wanted but none of us could

Listen to words of warning

But on the darkest of nights

Nobody knew how to fight

And we were caught in our sleep

Sorry Cassandra I didn't believe

You really had the power

I only saw it as dreams you would weave

Until the final hour



I watched the ship leaving harbour at sunrise

Sails almost slack in the cool morning rain

She stood on deck, just a tiny figure

Rigid and restrained, blue eyes filled with pain

Sorry Cassandra I misunderstood

Now the last day is dawning

Some of us wanted but none of us could

Listen to words of warning

But on the darkest of nights

Nobody knew how to fight

And we were caught in our sleep

Sorry Cassandra I didn't believe

You really had the power

I only saw it as dreams you would weave

Until the final hour



I'm sorry Cassandra

I'm sorry Cassandra

Cassandra - ABBA

ABBA's "Cassandra" stands as a poignant addition to their discography, released on the 1994 compilation "Thank You for the Music." The track exemplifies the group's signature blend of pop sensibilities and emotional depth, featuring Agnetha Fältskog's distinctive vocal delivery that anchors the song's narrative. While the title references the mythological figure known for her prophetic warnings, the recording transforms this concept into a universal exploration of unrequited love and the pain of being misunderstood. The composition utilizes the band's characteristic lush harmonies and driving rhythms, creating a sound that remains instantly recognizable despite its inclusion on a retrospective collection rather than a studio album. This track highlights ABBA's ability to craft songs with complex emotional undercurrents, ensuring the piece resonates with listeners who appreciate both the specific Swedish pop aesthetic and broader themes of human connection.