Meaning of "Tir Na Nog" by Van Morrison

"Tir Na Nog" is a Gaelic phrase that translates to "Land of Youth" or "Land of the Forever Young." In the context of the song, it symbolizes a place or a state of being where timeless connections and profound love exist beyond the constraints of earthly life. The speaker reminisces about encountering a long-lost friend who seems to have been a soulmate in past lives, highlighting the concept of reincarnation and the idea that certain souls find each other across different lifetimes. The lyrics also touch upon the fleeting nature of human relationships and the bittersweet realization that ultimate fulfillment may only be found in a realm beyond earthly existence. Overall, "Tir Na Nog" is a meditation on the enduring power of love and spiritual connection that transcends time and mortality.