I feel those who choose to limit this song to a war context are mistaken; war is but one element of the overall tableau of life this song encompasses. I have to go along with barrylamar as a dellow resident of late autumn familiar with the overall scheme of life, who urges those still on the summer side to enjoy it to the full, as there are disappointments to come. I always loved this song; now , with greater perspective, I appreciate it more. I also appreciate Sammyblue's encapsulation - Hopeful idealism destroyed by the realities of life. There is nothing in the song to suggest JohnSmihtab(?)'s Jesus reference; that is purely in the poster's mind, and I feel those caught up in the war setting have overanalyzed.
I feel those who choose to limit this song to a war context are mistaken; war is but one element of the overall tableau of life this song encompasses. I have to go along with barrylamar as a dellow resident of late autumn familiar with the overall scheme of life, who urges those still on the summer side to enjoy it to the full, as there are disappointments to come. I always loved this song; now , with greater perspective, I appreciate it more. I also appreciate Sammyblue's encapsulation - Hopeful idealism destroyed by the realities of life. There is nothing in the song to suggest JohnSmihtab(?)'s Jesus reference; that is purely in the poster's mind, and I feel those caught up in the war setting have overanalyzed.