Meaning of "Nightfall" by Robert Francis

The lyrics of "Nightfall" by Robert Francis convey a profound sense of disillusionment and yearning for escape. The narrator seems to be overwhelmed by the hectic pace of life, feeling like they are moving too quickly and unable to keep up with the constant changes and destruction happening around them. The imagery of walking over water and stained glass suggests a fragile and precarious existence, while the image of little white sparrows flying away symbolizes a desire to escape and find peace. The references to alcohol and scaffolds holding half a million kids paint a bleak picture of a society in decline, where personal connections and beauty are overshadowed by chaos and loss. The repeated refrain of "before the nightfall" reinforces the idea of time slipping away and a desperate need to leave before it's too late. Overall, the lyrics capture a sense of helplessness in the face of a world that is crumbling, and the longing for a simpler and more meaningful existence that seems increasingly out of reach.