Guinnevere

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's song 'Guinnevere' is a poetic and mystical exploration of an elusive and enchanting woman. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Guinnevere, who is described with green eyes and golden hair, evoking a sense of ethereal beauty and timelessness. The imagery of her walking through a garden after the rain, with peacocks wandering aimlessly, creates a dreamlike atmosphere that suggests a connection to nature and a sense of serenity. The repeated question, 'Why can't she see me?' hints at a longing and unrequited love, adding a layer of melancholy to the song.

The song also delves into the mystical and mysterious aspects of Guinnevere's character. The mention of her drawing pentagrams late at night suggests a fascination with the occult or the esoteric, adding depth to her persona. This element of secrecy and the idea that she 'shall be free' as she gazes down the slope to the harbor where the narrator lays anchored for a day, implies a sense of yearning for freedom and escape. The harbor and the act of being anchored symbolize a temporary pause in the narrator's life, possibly waiting for Guinnevere to notice him or to join him in his journey.

The final verse brings a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the past. The imagery of riding through the warm wind by the bay, with seagulls circling endlessly, evokes a sense of freedom and harmony. The narrator's silent song and the repeated phrase 'We shall be free' suggest a hope for a future where they can be together, free from the constraints that currently keep them apart. The song's blend of natural imagery, mystical elements, and emotional depth creates a rich tapestry that captures the listener's imagination and evokes a sense of timeless beauty and longing.