The End Of The Innocence

Don Henley's 'The End Of The Innocence' is a poignant reflection on the loss of simplicity and purity as one transitions from the carefree days of childhood to the complexities of adulthood. The song opens with a nostalgic look at a time when life was simpler and worries were few, with the protective presence of parents providing a sense of security. However, this idyllic scene is disrupted by the realization that the fairy tales of childhood are not reflective of the real world, where 'happily ever after' is often unattainable and innocence is lost amidst the harsh realities of life.

The chorus introduces a place of escape, a sanctuary untouched by the corruption of the world, where one can find solace in nature and momentarily return to a state of innocence. This place serves as a metaphor for the longing to revert to a time before innocence was lost. Henley's lyrics suggest that despite the desire to defend one's innocence, the inevitable progression of time and the experiences that come with it mark the end of this pure state.

The song also touches on broader societal issues, such as the transformation of peace into conflict, symbolized by the skies turning from spacious and beautiful to threatening. The reference to 'armchair warriors' and a 'tired old man that we elected king' hints at political disillusionment and the loss of innocence on a national scale. The song ultimately acknowledges the impermanence of innocence, both personally and collectively, and the need to cherish the memories of simpler times before moving forward.