Cantopop Collection: Recounting those eras of Cantonese songs interwoven with light and shadow, recording unforgettable melodies in the heart, sharing stories of popular or niche Hong Kong music.
Preface#
There are moments when we feel we have lost so much: beloved places, cherished things, and one, then another, beloved person. When life’s burdens weigh us down until we can barely breathe, when darkness seems about to swallow all hope, music becomes a haven for our souls.
This Cantonese version of “Once I Thought About Ending It All” soothed the sadness within me in the gentlest way, offering the most precious hope during those difficult days.
Song Background#
“Once I Thought About Ending It All” was originally a song that deeply reflects on the meaning of life, and this Cantonese version was born under special historical circumstances. The creator wrote in the song description: “I don’t want to lose anymore, so I wrote this Cantonese version of ‘Once I Thought About Ending It All’ for you.”
This is not merely a simple language conversion, but a reinterpretation of emotion. The rhythm and emotional expression of Cantonese give this song a different warmth and texture.
Lyrics#
When you think of leaving it all behind, jumping from a high place Do you feel there are cold, mocking eyes, despising you, right? But acting rashly comes at a cost Breaking the hearts of loved ones, I fear Apologizing in the next life is too late, regretful, right?
When you cry, do you always think of letting go, giving up? Does despair fill your mind, exploding everywhere, hurting you, right? Don’t let go and fall into ruins, look back at those you love once I hope you can stand strong again, filled with courage, don’t be afraid
Watered by pain, you grow stronger After the rain, the heart opens wide, this depression will surely lift Returning home, you’ll drink the bowl of warm soup you longed for With both arms, create, ignite passion with your ideals once more Ordinary iron transforms through will, tempered by countless trials into finest steel This world is too beautiful, don’t let go with both hands lightly Hold on, hold on, to the distant horizon
With both hands, found starlight deep in the vast sky Though the world holds malice, love also blooms abundantly Forget the wounds, look ahead Tomorrow will surely be clear Carry faith with you, even if both arms ache, never let go—
When you’re very lonely, do you want to find someone to talk to? But always feel everyone seems to dislike you, right? Don’t let your heart harden again Regrets can then be digested With an open mind, you’ll see farther, more magnificent, right?
When your sadness overflows, flooding into your scars Thoughts of giving up, almost full, about to snap, right? Don’t let go and fall into ruins, look back at those you love once I hope you can stand strong again, filled with courage, don’t be afraid
Even if storms descend, fight against them with all your might After the rain, the heart opens wide, this depression will surely lift Returning home, you’ll drink the bowl of warm soup you longed for With both arms, create, ignite passion with reason once more Ordinary iron transforms through will, tempered by countless trials into finest steel This world is too beautiful, don’t let go with both hands lightly Able to hold on, face calamities with a smile, gaze toward the horizon
Rebuild this battered and scarred place, await the light of dawn Though the world holds malice, love also blooms abundantly Forget the wounds, look ahead Tomorrow will surely be clear That faith, carry it with you Even if both arms ache, never let go
In this life, this flower can only bloom once How can there be an end to it all, when there are loved ones who miss you Even in dire straits, resist decay, struggle with all your might Hoping to stand strong, refilled with courage, never fear again
From within pain and darkness, found hope Though the world holds malice, love also blooms abundantly Forget the wounds, look ahead Tomorrow will surely be clear Carry faith with you, even if both arms ache, never let go
Having tasted bitterness, you grow more robust Ignite yourself, shine your light Faith will overcome setbacks, never, ever let go!
Conclusion#
Cantonese lyrics always resonate most deeply within me, and I hope this song can be heard by more people. If you are also in a dark period of life, I hope this song can heal you.
Give yourself some time. In this increasingly uncertain world, nothing is absolutely correct or absolutely necessary. Experience the beauty of life, live well, and keep striving to live on.
Promise me, let’s live on together, okay?
💡 If you are going through a difficult time, remember you are not alone. Seeking professional help is an act of courage, and friends and family around you are also willing to offer support. Life is precious and worth protecting together.