The Long and Winding Road
Singer & The London Starlight Orchestra Lyrics
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It’s been a long and dusty road
Little donkey, little donkey
But there’s not much further to go
Until your journey’s end
Chorus
So travel on tonight
And as the daylight fades
One star will lead you onward
To your journey’s end
A few more steps to go
With your precious load
Though your legs are tired
Keep plodding onward to your journey’s end
Little donkey, little donkey
Optional descant to chorus
Onward, onward, onward through the night
Onward, onward, Bethlehem’s in sight
Ooh... to your journey’s end
Onward, onward, few more steps to go
Onward, onward, with your precious load
Ooh... to your journey’s end
Little donkey, little donkey
Little donkey, little donkey
The lyrics of "The Long and Winding Road" by Singer & The London Starlight Orchestra depict the journey of a little donkey and its rider towards their destination, which is suggested to be Bethlehem. The first verse sets the scene, describing the road as long and dusty, indicating that the journey has not been easy. However, it also implies that the end of the journey is near, giving the assurance that there is not much further to go.
The chorus highlights the progress made by the donkey and its rider. It encourages them to continue traveling tonight, as Bethlehem is in sight. The fading daylight is symbolized by the mention of one star leading them onward. This star acts as a guiding light, emphasizing the significance and direction it provides during their journey. The chorus also emphasizes the presence of a precious load, which could be interpreted in various ways, such as representing the hope and anticipation of reaching Bethlehem.
The optional descant conveys a sense of urgency and determination during the journey. By repeating the word "onward," it encourages the little donkey and its rider to persevere through the night. They are reminded that Bethlehem is nearing and that they only have a few more steps to take. The mention of a "precious load" reinforces the importance of their mission and the need to continue plodding along until they reach their destination.
Throughout the song, the repeated reference to the little donkey serves as a metaphor for the struggles and challenges faced during life's journey. Despite its tired legs, it is encouraged to keep moving forward towards its journey's end. The lyrics overall depict perseverance, hope, and the belief that the effort put into the journey will lead to a fulfilling and meaningful outcome.
Line by Line Meaning
It’s been a long and dusty road
The journey has been difficult and full of challenges.
Little donkey, little donkey
Addressing the donkey, acknowledging its significance in the journey.
But there’s not much further to go
The end of the journey is approaching.
Until your journey’s end
Referring to the final destination of the donkey's journey.
So travel on tonight
Encouraging the donkey to continue its journey during the night.
Now Bethlehem’s in sight
The town of Bethlehem, the destination, is visible.
And as the daylight fades
Referring to the approaching darkness as the day comes to an end.
One star will lead you onward
A star will guide and show the way to the donkey.
To your journey’s end
Guiding the donkey towards its final destination.
A few more steps to go
Only a short distance remains in the journey.
With your precious load
Referring to the importance of the donkey's cargo.
Though your legs are tired
Acknowledging the donkey's physical fatigue.
Keep plodding onward to your journey’s end
Urging the donkey to continue moving forward despite exhaustion.
Onward, onward, onward through the night
Repeating the call for the donkey to keep going during the night.
Bethlehem’s in sight
Emphasizing the proximity of the donkey's destination.
Ooh... to your journey’s end
Expressing anticipation and excitement for the journey's conclusion.
Few more steps to go
Highlighting the remaining short distance in the donkey's travel.
With your precious load
Emphasizing the value and importance of the donkey's cargo.
Ooh... to your journey’s end
Reiterating the imminent completion of the journey.
Little donkey, little donkey
Continuing to address and acknowledge the donkey's significance in the journey.
Little donkey, little donkey
Concluding the song by reaffirming the donkey's importance.
Lyrics © Gottalife Productions
Written by: James Wright
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind