The Valley Of The Moon

Song Meaning

This song paints a picture of hopeful anticipation, a traveler yearning to return to a beloved and a specific, almost mythical place. The narrator is far from home, describing a journey that's nearing its end. The "Land of Cherokee" is the starting point of his absence, and the "Valley of the Moon" is the destination where "big happiness" awaits. It's a vision of reunion and peace after a period of separation. The central tension lies in the distance and the passage of time. The narrator explicitly states his "journey's almost over" and that he'll be "coming soon," yet the repeated plea to the "nighthawks" to "take the message" suggests a lingering delay or a need for reassurance to be sent ahead. This creates a subtle undercurrent of anxiety beneath the overarching optimism. The most striking element is the ethereal quality of the "Valley of the Moon." It's not just a physical location but a promised land of happiness, a place where memories of the past that "keep haunting" can be overcome. The repetition of the phrase "And the Valley of the Moon" in the chorus and outro, almost like a mantra, emphasizes its significance as the ultimate goal and the source of solace. Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they tap into a universal desire for homecoming and the comfort of a loved one's presence. The simple, direct language and the imagery of a long journey culminating in reunion create a powerful emotional arc. The plea to the nighthawks adds a touch of folk-like charm, making the narrator's longing feel both personal and timeless.