Meaning of "Cathedral" by Crosby, Stills & Nash

"Cathedral" by Crosby, Stills & Nash can be interpreted as a commentary on the complexities and disillusionment associated with organized religion, particularly Christianity. The lyrics depict the narrator's experience visiting a supposedly holy place, the Lords and Winchester Cathedral. However, their experience within the cathedral is not what they expect. The imagery of the lady setting flowers and the cleaner finding a cobweb suggests a sense of neglect or superficiality within the religious institution. The narrator's feeling that this can't be the place reflects a disillusionment with the idea that a physical building can hold the essence of spirituality. The criticism of religion becomes even more explicit as the narrator expresses their disillusionment with Christianity and the actions done in the name of Christ. The narrator questions the lies and deaths that have occurred, suggesting a loss of faith in the institution and its teachings. The narrative then takes a personal turn as the narrator discovers a grave of a soldier who shares their birthday. This encounter with mortality and the confusion of identity prompt the narrator to feel a sense of being disconnected from their own sense of self and spinning back in time. The song ends with the narrator being high upon the altar, possibly representing a transcendent or altered state of consciousness that provides some form of escape or release from the disillusionment and confusion. Overall, "Cathedral" explores the complexities and disappointments associated with religious institutions and raises questions about the true nature of spirituality and personal identity.