Meaning of "Go Be Young" by Edwin McCain

The lyrics of "Go Be Young" by Edwin McCain seem to convey a sense of regret and nostalgia for lost opportunities and dreams. The narrative unfolds through interactions with a woman who constantly mistakes the narrator for someone else, which could symbolize the confusion and disorientation that can come from losing sight of oneself. The reference to the Indian in the guardhouse sharing stories of loss and tragedy may represent the wisdom and perspective gained from listening to other people's experiences. Ultimately, the chorus's repeated refrain to "Go be young, go be free" serves as a reminder to embrace life fully and pursue one's dreams before it's too late, urging listeners to avoid making the same mistakes of settling for less.