Meaning of "My Baby Needs A Shepherd" by Emmylou Harris

The lyrics of "My Baby Needs A Shepherd" evoke a sense of parental guilt and regret for not being able to provide the necessary protection and guidance for a child who has been lost and wandering. The imagery of a shepherd, angel, and pilot all suggest the need for someone to watch over and guide the child, to help her navigate the challenges and dangers of life. The narrator's acknowledgment of their own shortcomings and failure to be there for the child is expressed through powerful metaphors of lost footprints, broken lands, and dark shadows in their heart. The repeated references to the need for a "mother" to love her till the end emphasize the importance of unconditional love and support in a child's life. Overall, the lyrics convey a deep sense of sorrow, longing, and helplessness in the face of a child's uncertain journey through life.