The Hero’s Return Lyrics – The Final Cut – Pink Floyd

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The Hero’s Return Lyrics

Jesus, Jesus, what’s it all about?
Trying to clout these little ingrates into shape.
When I was their age all the lights went out.
There was no time to whine or mope about.
And even now part of me flies over
Dresden at angels one five.
Though they’ll never fathom it behind my
Sarcasm desperate memories lie.

Sweetheart sweetheart are you fast asleep? Good.
‘Cause that’s the only time that I can really speak to you.
And there is something that I’ve locked away
A memory that is too painful
To withstand the light of day.

When we came back from the war the banners and
Flags hung on everyone’s door.
We danced and we sang in the street and
The church bells rang.
But burning in my heart
My memory smolders on
Of the gunners dying words on the intercom.

The Final Cut was Roger Water’s final album with Pink Floyd

1. The Post War Dream
2. Your Possible Pasts
3. One of the Few
4. The Hero’s Return
5. The Gunner’s Dream
6. Paranoid Eyes
7. Get Your Filthy Hands Off My Desert
8. The Fletcher Memorial Home
9. Southampton Doc
10. The Final Cut
11. Not Now John
12. Two Suns in the Sunset

Analysis of The Hero’s Return Lyrics

Pink Floyd’s “The Hero’s Return” from their album “The Final Cut” is an evocative exploration of the themes of memory, sacrifice, and the lasting impacts of war. The song paints an emotional landscape that delves into the complexities of the human experience during and after conflict. It opens by highlighting generational differences and a sense of disillusionment with the younger generation, juxtaposed against the hardships of the past. This theme resonates with the cyclical nature of history and the unique challenges each generation faces.

As the song progresses, it addresses the enduring trauma of war, with poignant references like “Over Dresden at angel’s one five,” symbolizing the destruction and loss from bombings during World War II. The lyrics “Sweetheart, sweetheart, are you fast asleep? Good, ’cause that’s the only time that I can really speak to you” introduce themes of longing, memory, and the bittersweet nature of recollections. The song explores the deep emotional connections that exist beyond the physical realm, emphasizing the enduring power of love and memory.

In its final verse, “The Hero’s Return” touches on survivor’s guilt and the complexities of readjusting to civilian life after experiencing the horrors of battle. The memory of a fallen comrade’s last words serves as a constant reminder of the emotional toll of war. The song as a whole is a powerful commentary on the endurance of memory, the weight of sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of conflict.

By weaving these themes together, Pink Floyd invites listeners to reflect on the profound impacts of war, the nature of heroism, and the complexities of personal memories. “The Hero’s Return” stands as a timeless reflection on the human condition, highlighting the power of music to evoke empathy and provoke thoughtful reflection