Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “Oxford Town” by Richie Havens
Oxford Town by Richie Havens is a song about the power of the human spirit to overcome the challenges of life, regardless of the hardships that may be faced. The song speaks to the idea that if you don’t give up, you can eventually prevail in the face of adversity and achieve your goals. The lyrics, “Down in Oxford Town, guns and swords they did shine, ev’rybody was a-talkin’ bout, the evils of old time” speak to the idea that there will always be darkness and strife in the world, but that if one can stand firm and push through, they can become better. The chorus continues on to say that “It’s today I know I must face the past, forget all the sorrow I held so fast, for love and hope bloom together, and peace will follow on.” This conveys that, ultimately, love and hope will prevail over hatred and hopelessness, as long as you have the courage to take the first step and “face the past.” In the end, the song speaks to the power of standing up for oneself and not giving up, no matter what hardships one may find on the road to success.