Going Back

Queen's song 'Going Back' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the yearning to return to the simplicity and authenticity of youth. The lyrics express a desire to revisit the values and truths learned during childhood, a time when life was less complicated and more genuine. The opening lines, 'I think I'm going back to the things I learnt so well in my youth,' set the tone for a journey of introspection and rediscovery. This longing for the past is not just about reminiscing but about reclaiming a sense of freedom and honesty that seems lost in adulthood.

The song contrasts the innocence of youth with the complexities of adult life. Lines like 'No more colouring books, no Christmas bells to chime' highlight the loss of simple joys and the transition to a more serious, less playful existence. However, the lyrics also suggest that growing older doesn't mean losing the essence of youth. 'Thinking young and growing older is no sin' implies that maintaining a youthful mindset can coexist with the responsibilities of adulthood. The song encourages embracing the wisdom and experiences gained over the years while holding onto the spirit of youth.

'Going Back' also touches on themes of friendship and emotional openness. The line 'I can recall a time when I wasn't ashamed to reach out to a friend' reflects a longing for the unguarded connections of the past. The song suggests that adulthood often brings a sense of isolation and guardedness, but it also offers the possibility of deeper, more meaningful interactions. The closing lines, 'A little bit of freedom's all we lack, so catch me if you can, I'm going back,' encapsulate the song's message of seeking liberation from the constraints of modern life and returning to a state of emotional and spiritual freedom.