Meaning of "Long Time Gone" by Crosby, Stills & Nash

The lyrics of "Long Time Gone" convey a sense of social and political unrest, urging listeners to speak out against the injustices they see. The repetition of phrases, such as "It's been a long time comin'" and "Appears to be a long time," emphasizes the passage of time, indicating that change will not happen overnight. The lyrics suggest that there is something happening, something wrong, and it needs to be addressed. There is a call for individuals to pay attention to what is going on around them, to hear what the people are saying. The line "Surely, surely, surely won't stand the light of day" implies that the truth will become evident and expose the wrongdoing. The following verse urges people to speak out against the madness, to voice their opinions and stand up against injustice. However, there is a cautionary note, warning against seeking personal gain through politics, as indicated by the line "If you do, you had better cut your hair." This implies that maintaining one's authenticity and integrity is crucial in effecting meaningful change. The lyrics conclude with a glimmer of hope, stating that even in the darkest hour, just before the dawn, change is imminent.

The overall meaning of the song reflects the political and social climate of the era in which it was written, the 1960s. It captures the spirit of activism and encourages individuals to take a stand against injustices, emphasizing the need for perseverance in the face of long-lasting change. The repetition and simple melodies of the song make it accessible and memorable, effectively conveying its message.