☝️ Key Points
- The song celebrates purity and childlike innocence, and the ability to see the world without prejudice
- The singer addresses a person and admires their innocence, comparing them to something 'sent from heaven'
- The joy of first experiences in life is highlighted
- There is hope that this person will maintain their purity even though many lose it over time
- The song addresses growing up and the changes that come with it, but holds onto the hope that childhood innocence can be preserved
Interpretation
The song 'Innocent' by
Mike Oldfield celebrates purity and innocence, particularly childlike innocence, and the ability to see the world with fresh, unbiased eyes. The singer addresses an unknown person and emphasizes how wonderful they are in their innocence - 'You are magnificent when you're innocent.' He reminds them that in their purity, they are 'sent from heaven' and highlights the simplicity and joy found in the first experiences of life, like the first laugh, the first smile, the first conversation. The singer hopes that this person will maintain their purity, even as most people lose it over time - 'In time, most of us lose it. But I'm hoping, just the same. You'll shine and learn how to use it.' The song concludes with the notion that one day this person will look back on their life and decide to sing their own song, indicating they will find their own path, independent of others' expectations. It is also a song about growing up and the changes that come with it, but it holds onto the hope that the innocence and purity of childhood can be preserved in some way.