Meaning of "Some Fool Made a Soldier of Me" by The Kingston Trio

The lyrics of "Some Fool Made a Soldier of Me" tell a story of the loss of innocence and the consequences of being drafted into military service against one's will. The protagonist goes from a carefree young boy to a hardened soldier, torn away from his loved one and dreams of a peaceful life. The song highlights the struggles faced by those who are forced into combat, showing how decisions made by others can drastically alter one's future. The reference to Gen'ral Custer and the Little Big Horn further emphasizes the sense of foreboding and inevitable tragedy that can result from being made a soldier against one's wishes. Ultimately, the lyrics speak to the personal sacrifices and suffering involved in being conscripted into war, serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict.