The lyrics describe the sons of Britain who were once free but have now become slaves to the industrial machine, warning about the dangers of conforming to a soulless path. The song shifts to a scene in the woods where trolls march through darkness, only to be interrupted by a young musician bringing color and creativity.

Meaning of "Celtic Rock" by Donovan

The lyrics of "Celtic Rock" by Donovan are a powerful commentary on the loss of freedom and individuality in the face of industrialization. The reference to Britain's sons losing their freedom to factories can be interpreted as a critique of the dehumanizing effects of modernization and the sacrifice of one's soul for the sake of progress. The trolls marching through the woods symbolize the mindless conformity and darkness that come with a life driven solely by materialism and labor. However, Finn Hanley's arrival with his lute represents the enduring power of creativity and uniqueness to disrupt this bleak routine, offering a glimmer of hope and inspiration in a monotonous world. The repetition of "Clothed in scarlet livery, all wide eyed in the bright noon day," emphasizes the striking contrast between creativity and conformity, encouraging listeners to preserve their individuality and fight against the homogenizing forces of society. Ultimately, the song questions whether the price of industrial uniformity is the suppression of creative intelligence and the loss of what makes us truly human.