Each Measure Feature: Tom Hancock

FEATURE

Tom Hancock’s latest, “I Could Have Run,” is a haunting perception of death, reflection, and regret. The single is inspired by the tragic death of Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader. Hancock composed the song on the day Navalny’s death was confirmed, February 16th, 2024. Instead of a heavy focus on political prose, Hancock chose to highlight the deeply human and emotional side of Navalny’s fate. “I Could Have Run” is a reflective exploration of the impossible situation of Navalny’s end. His courage to stand up against corruption, his choice to continue in this pursuit despite the dangers, and the cost of his family going on without him. 

“I Could Have Run” was recorded in Hancock’s home studio just a year after it was written. His goal was to maintain the raw emotion and reaction of its content. I’ve listened to it about 20 times since it was released. I can say with certainty that the deep reflection of lyricism and poetic outburst Hancock must have been feeling was not lost in translation from writing day to recording day. “Sorry, I must leave you. Please do forgive me for all those years of ours that we were owed and robbed. Maybe I’m a foolish man; I know you won’t understand. Was it pride that killed me? I don't even know myself.” To me, this is Hancock’s take on Navalny’s inner monologue about his family. 

And in one final act of defiance: “As I lay here, I have one last laugh. Because they can’t kill me if I’m already dead. 

No one will know the doubts I bought, the moments of fear. I was terrified.

But deep down I knew my path; I knew what I would sacrifice. And I didn’t run.”

Hancock’s lyrics are simple but strong and emotional. “I Could Have Run” is a real-world tapestry of defiance, corruption, and observation of it all. This is art and perceiving the world through the lens of it.

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