1. Nostalgia for Innocence: The song reflects a longing for a time of innocence, simplicity, and purity that may have existed in the past. The lyrics "They've torn down all the trees and built a shopping mall" suggest a sense of loss and the erosion of natural beauty and simple pleasures.
2. Loss of Innocence: Alternatively, the song might explore the loss of innocence and the transition to a more complex, challenging, or even corrupting world. The fields of innocence could symbolize a safe, sheltered environment, which contrasts with the harsh realities and disappointments of life outside that sheltered space.
3. Environmental Destruction: The lyrics also hint at environmental degradation and the negative consequences of human activity on nature. The mention of "poisoned streams" and "concrete jungle" suggests that the song reflects a concern for environmental issues and the destruction of natural habitats.
4. Political or Social Commentary: Some interpretations view the song as a critique of societal norms, politics, or the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The "fields of innocence" might symbolize marginalized or oppressed groups, and the song highlights their struggle to retain their purity in a world marked by corruption, greed, and injustice.
5. Hope for Renewal: Despite the themes of loss and degradation, the song also offers a glimpse of hope. The line "But through it all, we will sing" indicates resilience, determination, and a belief in the possibility of overcoming the challenges presented by a harsh and unforgiving world.
Ultimately, the meaning of "Fields of Innocence" is open to interpretation and can resonate differently with each individual listener, based on their own experiences, perspectives, and personal connections with the themes presented in the song.