How Long
The Eagles Lyrics

Like a blue bird with his heart removed, lonely as a train
Feeling alone and helpless, running without any clear direction or purpose.

I've run just as far as I can run
Trying to outrun one's problems or past mistakes, but reaching the limit of what is possible.

If I never see the good old days shinin' in the sun
Coming to terms with the fact that the past is gone and there's no going back to it.

I'll be doin' fine and then some
Feeling content with one's current situation and confident in the ability to thrive in the future.

How long, how long Woman will you weep
Asking someone who's been hurt how long they will continue to be unhappy and grieve.

Rock yourself to sleep
Finding solace and comfort in music or other forms of artistic expression.

Well I been doin' time in lonesome prison, where the sun don't shine
Feeling trapped in a difficult situation or a place where nothing good ever happens.

Just outside, the freedom river runs
Realizing that freedom and happiness are close by, yet still out of reach.

Out there in that shiny night, with blood hounds on your mind
Feeling paranoid or hunted down, even when everything looks perfect on the surface.

Don't you know it's the same sad situation?
Recognizing that other people are going through similar struggles and that suffering is universal.

Everybody feels alright you know, I heard some poor fool say (somebody ooh)
Realizing that some people are oblivious to their own and others' suffering and choose to ignore it.

Everyone is out there on the loose
Feeling like everyone else is living their lives carefree and without any restrictions or responsibilities.

Well I wish I lived in the land of fools, no one knew my name
Longing for a place where one's mistakes and flaws are not constantly judged and criticized by others.

But what you get is not quite what you choose
Accepting the fact that life is full of unpredictable and often disappointing surprises.

How long, how long Muddy River runs so deep
Comparing feelings of sadness, regret or despair to a deep, untamed river that runs without end.

Good night baby, rock yourself to sleep Sleep tight baby, rock yourself to sleep Be-be-be, bye bye baby, rock yourself to sleep
Using music as a way of saying goodbye, finding comfort in it and allowing it to bring one's emotions to rest.