Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “The Big Ones Get Away” by Sandi Thom
Sandi Thom’s song ‘The Big Ones Get Away’ appears to explore the idea of pursuing, and losing out on, a great opportunity or moment in life. The song speaks of a character who experienced something “big” but only for a brief moment in time, before it disappeared as quickly as it came.
The first verse addresses this concept directly, with Thom singing of how the character’s life had been brought to life, but then “like a thief in the night, the big ones, they get away”. This powerful imagery of something coming into being momentarily, only to be stolen away again, emphasizes the character’s inability to seize the opportunity and take hold of it.
The chorus follows, with Thom reminding the character to not get too attached and to not dwell on the past, as well as to make sure “the next big one doesn’t get away”. This serves as a reminder that life will keep throwing opportunities at us, and that if a particular moment has been lost, another will come soon.
Overall, ‘The Big Ones Get Away’ is an encouraging song that speaks of learning to let go of disappointment, whilst also not taking life’s opportunities for granted. It reminds us that no matter how rough times can be, if we remain vigilant in seeking out new opportunities, we can continue to find moments of fulfillment.