Night Song
Crosby Stills Nash & Young Lyrics
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Does it say
When you're lost
you stay that way
Why a forest of fools
getting in the way
Cannot hear, cannot
fade with the nightsong.
Nightsong, from my heart
Why can't we
Sing this nightsong.
All alone
I reflect on my demons
in the night
Some are wise,
Some are good
Some are not so bright
I can't hear
Sing along
with the nightsong.
Nightsong, from my heart
Why can't we
Sing this nightsong.
Why not
keep on singing anyway?
Run away
I don't know what it was
Led you astray
Just because you're too much
like I am anyway
I will come
You can't hide
From the nightsong.
Nightsong, from my heart
Why can't we
Sing this nightsong.
Why not
keep on singing anyway?
The lyrics of "Night Song" by Crosby Stills Nash & Young carry a theme of introspection, reflection, and self-discovery that is perfectly captured through the poetic imagery and subtle symbolism used. Stephen Stills & Neil Young begin the song with a question, "Where does it say when you're lost you stay that way?" suggesting that they are looking for guidance and direction, which seems to be lost in the darkness of the night. The line "Why a forest of fools getting in the way" adds to this confusion and disorientation, pointing to the distractions and obstacles that can hinder our growth and progress.
The chorus of "Night Song" presents a simple yet profound message: "Why can't we sing this night song?" It speaks to the power of music and how it can bring people together, even in the darkest times. Despite being alone with their demons, the singers still have hope and a desire to connect with others through the "night song." The verses that follow explore the different aspects of the singer's personality, both good and bad, and acknowledge that no one is perfect. Nevertheless, the night song remains a constant, an unchanging melody that carries them through their struggles.
Overall, "Night Song" is a beautiful tribute to the beauty and power of music, and a reminder that even in the darkness, there is hope and the possibility of connection.
Line by Line Meaning
Tell me where
Please tell me the location
Does it say
Is it written
When you're lost you stay that way
Do you remain lost once you're unable to find your way
Why a forest of fools getting in the way
Why do those who lack wisdom hinder progress
Cannot hear, cannot fade with the night song.
Unable to listen, incapable of blending with the melody of the night
Night song, from my heart
A tune that originates from within me
Why can't we
What prevents us from
Sing this night song.
Singing this piece tonight
All alone
By myself
I reflect on my demons in the night
I meditate on my inner demons during the night
Some are wise,
Certain ones are intelligent
Some are good
Several are virtuous
Some are not so bright
But a few are unintelligent
I can't hear
I am unable to hear
Sing along with the night song.
Joining in and singing during the night
Why not keep on singing anyway?
Is there a reason to stop singing
Run away
Escape
I don't know what it was
I'm unaware of the cause
Led you astray
That made you go down the wrong path
Just because you're too much like I am anyway
Since you resemble me so much on the inside
I will come
I will arrive
You can't hide
You cannot conceal yourself
From the night song.
Away from this music piece of the night
Why not keep on singing anyway?
Is there a reason to stop singing
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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