Lay down
Your sweet and weary head
The night is falling
You have come to journey's end
Sleep now
And dream of the ones who came before
They are calling
From across the distant shore

Why do you weep?
What are these tears upon your face?
Soon you will see
All of your fears will pass away
Safe in my arms
You're only sleeping

What can you see
On the horizon?
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea
A pale moon rises
The ships have come to carry you home

And all will turn
To silver glass
A light on the water
All Souls pass

Hope fades
Into the world of night
Through shadows falling
Out of memory and time
Don't say
We have come now to the end
White shores are calling
You and I will meet again
And you'll be here in my arms
Just sleeping

And all will turn
To silver glass
A light on the water
Grey ships pass
Into the West


Lyrics submitted by merchantpierce, edited by king102575

Into the West Lyrics as written by Philippa Boyens Howard Shore

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

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Into the West song meanings
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  • +2
    General Comment

    I like to think of the song as Elrond talking to his wife Celebrian before she departs for the grey havens. For those of you who don't know the story, Celebrian was the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn. She had three children with Elrond; Twin boys Eledan and Elohir, and a daughter Arwen. Some time after Arwen's hirth, Celebrian decided to visit her parents in Loth Lorien. While traveling over the Misty Mountains, she is captured and tortured by orcs. She was there for a while before her sons came and rescued her. She was taken to Loth Lorien to heal, but she remained psychologically scarred. She could not remain in Middle Earth, and sailed across the sea to Valinor. This song makes me think of Elrond spending one last night with his wife before she leaves him. Much sadder when you know the story. Such a good song.

    Wiccanbabeon May 23, 2015   Link

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