And the Healing Has Begun Lyrics — Glen Hansard

Song Details and Overview

• Producer: Glen Hansard


• Writer: Van Morrison


• Release Date: December 4, 2007


• Musical Genre: Folk, Acoustic Ballad


• Album: Once (Music from the Motion Picture)


• Track #: 14


• Label: Columbia Records


• Theme: Healing, renewal, love


• Mood: Hopeful, joyful, celebratory

Exploring the Meaning of "And the Healing Has Begun"

And the Healing Has Begun is Glen Hansard’s rendition of Van Morrison’s original song, and it serves as a celebration of healing, renewal, and togetherness. In this acoustic ballad, Hansard captures the spirit of Morrison’s lyrics with a heartfelt, soulful delivery that emphasizes the joy of reconnecting with life and love after hardship. Hansard’s gentle and expressive vocals infuse the song with warmth, evoking imagery of peaceful, intimate moments shared in the open air, under the stars, or strolling through familiar avenues. This celebratory sense of healing is especially poignant within the context of *Once*, a film that centers on music and connection as paths to emotional recovery.

[Verse 1]

The opening verse sets a nostalgic tone with "And we'll walk down the avenue again," suggesting the restoration of something cherished that was once lost. This repeated phrase reinforces a hopeful return to normalcy, a reawakening after a period of pain or separation.

[Verse 2]

In the second verse, Hansard adds a touch of joy and style, walking "in style" and "smiling." The line, "Baby, ain’t it all worthwhile," celebrates resilience, as if the healing journey was worth the hardship because of the peace and joy it now brings.

[Verse 3]

This verse brings a sense of romance, urging the listener to "put on your pretty summer dress" and "Sunday clothes," which evokes an occasion of significance. The invitation to "make love" is a metaphorical and literal expression of closeness and affection, suggesting that healing is not only about personal recovery but also about reconnecting emotionally and physically with loved ones.

[Verse 4]

In this verse, Hansard’s lyrics evoke imagery of music and companionship under the night sky, suggesting an atmosphere of harmony and intimacy. The line "We'll sit down and play for hours" emphasizes the timeless, soothing power of music as a tool for bonding and self-expression.

[Verse 5]

Here, the lyrics reflect an unrestrained freedom, as Hansard sings about staying out all night and wandering through open fields. This verse captures the exhilaration of being alive and fully present, celebrating the sense of freedom that comes from leaving past burdens behind.

Similar Songs

And the Healing Has Begun resonates with other songs that capture themes of renewal, connection, and the beauty of healing. Here are a few similar tracks:

• Van Morrison – "And It Stoned Me": Another Van Morrison classic, celebrating simple pleasures and the joy of shared experiences.


• Bob Dylan – "Shelter from the Storm": A song about finding solace and comfort after going through difficult times.


• The Swell Season – "Falling Slowly": Another Hansard piece that deals with vulnerability and healing through human connection.


• Fleetwood Mac – "Landslide": A reflective ballad about growth, change, and finding peace after hardship.


• Van Morrison – "Into the Mystic": Celebrates the feeling of freedom and tranquility as part of the journey toward peace and self-understanding.

Reception and Cultural Impact

Originally written and performed by Van Morrison, And the Healing Has Begun has become a cherished classic, and Hansard’s rendition further popularized it within the context of *Once*. Hansard’s interpretation of the song infuses it with an intimate, cinematic quality, which complements the themes of emotional recovery and connection that are central to *Once*. The song is often appreciated for its uplifting message and the way it resonates with listeners going through their own journeys of healing.

Quotes

“This song has always represented hope and a sense of coming back to life, of feeling joy after a long night. It's about those little moments that remind you why it’s all worth it.”

— Glen Hansard

“When I perform And the Healing Has Begun, it feels like a celebration of life itself. It’s a song about second chances and feeling whole again.”

— Glen Hansard, on performing Van Morrison's classic