Its About Time

John Denver's song 'It's About Time' is a poignant call for unity, change, and global awareness. The lyrics open with a powerful image of a full moon over India and a reference to Gandhi, symbolizing peace and non-violence. Denver questions the zero-sum mentality that suggests one must lose for another to win, urging listeners to see the interconnectedness of humanity. The line 'the first is just the last one when you play a deadly game' underscores the futility of competition and conflict, emphasizing that in the grand scheme, we are all equal and interconnected.

The chorus reinforces this message, stating 'It's about time we realize it, we're all in this together.' Denver calls for collective action and recognition of our shared fate. He highlights the urgency of addressing environmental changes, suggesting that the time for action is now. The imagery of a light in the Vatican window and a voice in the wilderness speaks to the universal need for guidance and moral leadership. Denver admires those who show reverence for the Earth, symbolized by the act of kneeling to kiss the land, which he describes as 'our Mother's breast.' This metaphor emphasizes the deep connection between humanity and the planet.

In the final verses, Denver personalizes the message by describing a man who is his brother, though he doesn't know his name. This man represents all of humanity, and Denver's empathy extends to the man's family, highlighting the shared human experience of love, pain, and responsibility. The repeated refrain 'It's about time' serves as a rallying cry for global unity, environmental stewardship, and the realization of a long-held dream of a peaceful, plentiful world. Denver's song is a timeless reminder that the time for change is now, and it is up to all of us to make it happen.