There Won't Be Many Coming Home

Roy Orbison's song 'There Won't Be Many Coming Home' is a poignant reflection on the devastating impact of war. The lyrics speak directly to the listeners, urging them to understand the harsh reality faced by soldiers and their families. The song opens with a universal appeal, addressing people of all walks of life—soldiers, women, children, and men—highlighting that the consequences of war touch everyone. The repeated refrain, 'there won't be many coming home,' serves as a somber reminder of the high cost of conflict, emphasizing the tragic loss of life.

The song also delves into the emotional toll on the families left behind. Orbison paints a vivid picture of the 'old folks' who remember the pride they felt as their children marched off to war, only to be left alone when the glory fades and the reality of loss sets in. This shift from pride to sorrow underscores the disillusionment and grief experienced by those who lose loved ones in war. The line 'maybe five out of twenty' starkly quantifies the loss, making the abstract concept of wartime casualties painfully concrete.

In the final verses, Orbison personalizes the tragedy by asking listeners to 'look real closely at the soldier' and consider that he might be someone's younger brother. This plea for empathy and recognition of shared humanity is a powerful anti-war message. The song concludes with the haunting acknowledgment that even if only one soldier returns, he is still 'some mother's son,' reinforcing the idea that every life lost is a profound tragedy. Through its evocative lyrics and emotional depth, 'There Won't Be Many Coming Home' serves as a timeless reminder of the human cost of war.