Meaning of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Greta Van Fleet

The lyrics of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Greta Van Fleet convey the universal human desire for progress and improvement. The narrator begins by describing their humble beginnings, being born by the river in a little tent. This imagery evokes the notion of being connected to nature and the ever-flowing river symbolizes the passing of time and constant movement. The line "I've been running ever since" suggests a sense of restlessness and the pursuit of something greater.

The repetition of "It's been a long, long time coming" conveys a sense of frustration and impatience with the current state of affairs. The narrator expresses the hardships they have faced, stating "It's been too hard living." This line reflects the struggles and difficulties they have encountered throughout their life. The fear of the unknown and the afterlife is also present, as they confess, "I'm afraid to die 'cause I don't know what's up there, baby, beyond the sky." This fear highlights the human desire for answers and certainty in the face of mortality.

In the following verse, the narrator reaches out to their brother for help but is met with disappointment. The brother "winds up knocking me back down on my knees." This betrayal and rejection emphasize the difficulties faced when seeking support and relying on others. Despite these setbacks, the narrator expresses resilience and determination to carry on.

The final repetition of "It's been a long, long time coming" echoes a growing sense of hope and anticipation. The narrator believes that change is inevitable and that they are now able to carry on. This optimism suggests a belief in the transformative power of time and perseverance.

Overall, the lyrics of "A Change Is Gonna Come" capture the struggle for change and hope for a better future. It reflects the human experience of facing hardships, seeking support, and ultimately finding the strength to continue despite the challenges encountered.