Heron Song
Wings of Reflection: Ralph McTell's Heron Song Unveiled
Lyrics
And once I walked a million miles
Reflecting on a past experience of extensive travel, symbolizing a significant journey.
All the way to Yugoslavia
Specifically mentioning Yugoslavia as a destination, indicating a long and challenging voyage.
And I carried you all of the way
Expressing dedication by carrying someone throughout the journey.
For where I was then there you are.
Connecting the speaker's past with the present, suggesting a sense of continuity.
As the sun rose o'er the curb stones
Describing the sunrise over the curb stones, possibly signaling a new beginning or revelation.
By the road where I'd been sleeping
Referring to the road where the speaker had slept, hinting at a transient and challenging lifestyle.
Them night-long trucks, as they roared by
Highlighting the disruptive noise of trucks passing by, emphasizing the emotional impact on the speaker.
They could not drown my weeping.
Despite the noise, the speaker's sorrow remains evident and unaffected.
And it was me, and I alone
Acknowledging solitude and personal introspection during the journey.
Who looked toward the far horizon
Looking ahead towards an uncertain future, contemplating choices and possibilities.
And I saw King Heron
Introducing the symbolic figure of King Heron, possibly representing wisdom or guidance.
On his dead tree throne
Depicting King Heron on a dead tree throne, suggesting a sense of regal authority in a lifeless setting.
And I knew not which to keep my mind on.
Expressing uncertainty in deciding where to focus the mind amid conflicting choices.
Now I cannot speak for everyone
Clarifying that the speaker's perspective is personal and may not apply to everyone.
For they got their reasons
Acknowledging that others have their own reasons and experiences on the same road.
All on this road
Emphasizing diversity of experiences and perspectives along the journey.
But, Heron, would that I had your wings
Expressing a desire for the freedom and perspective symbolized by the wings of King Heron.
For then I'd know where I would go
Imagining the clarity and direction the speaker would have with Heron's wings.
For then I'd know where I would go.
Repeating the desire for Heron's wings, underscoring its significance.
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