Rocky Mountain High

John Denver's song "Rocky Mountain High" is a heartfelt ode to the transformative power of nature, particularly the majestic Colorado Rockies. The lyrics tell the story of a man who, at the age of 27, finds a new beginning in the mountains. This rebirth is described as leaving his past behind and discovering a sense of freedom and possibility, symbolized by the metaphor of finding a key for every door. The mountains offer him a sanctuary from his previous life, which was filled with the transient and unstable nature of being on the road.

The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative, painting a picture of the natural beauty and spiritual serenity found in the Rockies. Phrases like "rainin' fire in the sky" and "the shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby" capture the awe-inspiring and almost mystical experience of being in such a pristine environment. The protagonist's journey is not just physical but also deeply introspective, as he seeks grace and understanding in the solitude of the forests and streams. This quest for inner peace is symbolized by the clear blue mountain lake, representing clarity and tranquility.

However, the song also touches on the protagonist's underlying fear and sadness about the encroachment of modern civilization on this natural paradise. The lines "Why they try to tear the mountains down to bring in a couple more / More people, more scars upon the land" express a poignant concern for environmental preservation. Denver's lyrics suggest that the true wealth of life comes from experiencing the natural world, as evidenced by the line, "I know he'd be a poorer man if he never saw eagles fly." The song ultimately celebrates the profound and enriching connection between humans and nature, while also serving as a call to protect these precious landscapes from destruction.