Meaning of "Out In The Woods" by Leon Russell

In "Out In The Woods," Leon Russell captures the feeling of being lost, both physically and emotionally. The repeated line "Going down a hard road, don't know where I've been" suggests a sense of aimlessness and uncertainty. The narrator feels like they have been wandering in circles, unable to find their way or make meaningful connections with others. The line "My love she is not waiting, I've been gone too long" conveys a sense of longing and regret for lost opportunities, while the mention of people who make the narrator crazy highlights the frustration and disillusionment they feel. The reference to hustlers and gamblers represents the deceptive and manipulative individuals the narrator encounters in their journey. Despite their attempts to discern good from bad, they feel lost and unable to make sense of their surroundings. The plea for a "pretty little woman" to come and get them and try to heal their broken heart reveals a desire for love and understanding amidst the chaos. However, even in this longing, the narrator recognizes the difficulty of finding solace in others.

Overall, "Out In The Woods" conveys a deep sense of disorientation and confusion. The woods symbolize a place of uncertainty, where it is easy to get lost and where the boundaries between good and bad become blurry. The lyrics reflect the narrator's struggle to navigate through life's trials, their longing for connection, and the challenges of distinguishing between genuine compassion and insincere intentions.