Meaning of "Three Horses" by Joan Baez

"Three Horses" by Joan Baez can be interpreted as a metaphor for the passage of time and the different ways people perceive the past, present, and future. The white stallion symbolizes nostalgia and the comfort found in reminiscing about the past. The red mare represents the harsh realities of the present, reflecting back all that is before her without regard for comforting illusions. The black stallion embodies the unknown future, with all its uncertainties and fears. The children experiencing these horses represent humanity as a whole, grappling with the cyclical nature of time and the inevitability of change. The song captures the bittersweet essence of reminiscing, confronting the present, and facing the unknown with courage.