Released in 1977 as part of their album “ABBA: The Album,” “The Name of the Game” is a sophisticated and introspective ballad that showcases ABBA’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music. The song’s melancholic melody, combined with Agnetha Fältskog’s powerful vocals, creates a captivating atmosphere of longing and regret.
The Meaning Behind the Music
A Reflection on Heartbreak
“The Name of the Game” is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and the complexities of human relationships. The song captures the bittersweet emotions of loss and the struggle to move on.
A Search for Answers
The lyrics delve into the search for answers and understanding, as the narrator grapples with the end of a relationship. The song suggests a desire to make sense of the past and to find closure.
A Critique of Societal Expectations
“The Name of the Game” implicitly critiques societal expectations of relationships and gender roles. The lyrics suggest that the pressure to conform to societal norms can lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction.
A Timeless Exploration of Human Emotion
The song’s universal themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships have ensured its enduring popularity. “The Name of the Game” continues to resonate with audiences who have experienced the challenges of heartbreak, offering a sense of solace and understanding.
A Cultural Touchstone
“The Name of the Game” has become a cultural touchstone, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements. The song’s ability to evoke strong emotions and connect with listeners on a deep level has solidified its place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
I’ve seen you twice, in a short time Only a week since we started It seems to me, for every time I’m getting more open-hearted
I was an impossible case No-one ever could reach me But I think I can see in your face There’s a lot you can teach me So I wanna know
What’s the name of the game? Does it mean anything to you? What’s the name of the game? Can you feel it the way I do? Tell me please, ’cause I have to know I’m a bashful child, beginning to grow
And you make me talk And you make me feel And you make me show What I’m trying to conceal If I trust in you, would you let me down? Would you laugh at me, if I said I care for you? Could you feel the same way too? I wanna know
The name of the game
I have no friends, no-one to see And I am never invited Now I am here, talking to you No wonder I get excited
Your smile, and the sound of your voice And the way you see through me Got a feeling, you give me no choice But it means a lot to me So I wanna know
What’s the name of the game? (Your smile and the sound of your voice) Does it mean anything to you? (Got a feeling you give me no choice) (But it means a lot) What’s the name of the game? (Your smile and the sound of your voice) Can you feel it the way I do? Tell me please, ’cause I have to know I’m a bashful child, beginning to grow
And you make me talk And you make me feel And you make me show What I’m trying to conceal If I trust in you, would you let me down? Would you laugh at me, if I said I care for you? Could you feel the same way too? I wanna know Oh, yes, I wanna know
The name of the game (I was an impossible case) Does it mean anything to you? (But I think I can see in your face) (That it means a lot) What’s the name of the game? (Your smile and the sound of your voice) Can you feel it the way I do? (Got a feeling you give me no choice) (But it means a lot) What’s the name of the game? (I was an impossible case) Does it mean anything to you? (But I think I can see in your face) (That it means a lot)
