"It'll Take a Long Time" is the opening track of Sandy Denny’s acclaimed 1972 album Sandy. Written by Denny herself, the song is a poignant reflection on time, loss, and the slow, uncertain journey toward healing and understanding. It is widely regarded as one of her most beautiful and evocative compositions, blending English folk with touches of American country and introspective lyricism12.
Lyrics and Themes
The song uses the metaphor of a storm-tossed sea to describe emotional turmoil and the sense of being adrift after loss:
"Oh it's like a storm at sea,
And everything is lost,
And the fretful sailors calling out their woes,
As to the waves they're tossed."
Denny’s lyrics evoke resignation and the recognition that some wounds and uncertainties cannot be quickly resolved. The refrain, "It'll take a long, long time," is repeated like a mantra, underscoring the protracted nature of recovery and acceptance13. The song also touches on existential themes—there are "no need for rules" and "nobody living in this town, as even knows its name," suggesting a world where meaning is elusive and each person must chart their own course.
Musical Style and Recording
Musically, the track is notable for its blend of English folk and American country influences, featuring Pete Kleinow’s pedal steel guitar, John “Rabbit” Bundrick’s organ, and Richard Thompson’s electric guitar142. The arrangement is gentle yet powerful, with Denny’s expressive vocals at the center, supported by a warm, inviting sonic tapestry. Her delivery is both intimate and commanding, drawing the listener into the song’s emotional landscape23.
Legacy and Performances
"It'll Take a Long Time" has appeared on multiple compilations and live recordings, including Who Knows Where the Time Goes?, The Best of Sandy Denny, and No More Sad Refrains14. Denny performed the song in several live settings, including the BBC’s Old Grey Whistle Test and her final concert in 1977, underscoring its enduring significance in her repertoire14.
Key Facts Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Sandy Denny |
| Album | Sandy (1972) |
| Songwriter | Sandy Denny |
| Notable Musicians | Pete Kleinow (pedal steel), Richard Thompson (guitar), John Bundrick (organ) |
| Themes | Time, healing, loss, existential searching |
| Style | English folk with American country influences |
| Legacy | Frequently anthologized, performed live throughout her career |
Summary
"It'll Take a Long Time" is a deeply affecting meditation on grief, patience, and the slow process of coming to terms with life’s uncertainties. Sandy Denny’s poetic lyrics and emotive performance, supported by a subtle and sophisticated arrangement, make this song a standout in her catalog and a lasting classic of English folk123.
