"Come Away Melinda" is a song by Bobbie Gentry that was released in 1967. The song tells the story of a young child, referred to as Melinda, who discovers a picture book while digging in the ground. The child calls out to her mother, urging her to come and see what she has found. At first, the mother dismisses it as just a picture book from before the war. However, Melinda persists and points out that there are images of several girls who look like her inside the book. This sparks the mother's curiosity and she finally comes to take a look. As they continue flipping through the book, they come across a picture of a grown-up person who looks different from Melinda's mother. The child insists that this person doesn't resemble her mother, emphasizing the contrast. The lyrics imply that this "grown-up very tall" person represents the aftermath of the war, possibly a soldier or someone who has been profoundly affected by the conflict. As the song progresses, Melinda becomes more excited, urging her mother to see the happy faces and the green surroundings portrayed in the pictures. This signifies a longing for a world that existed before the war, where there was peace and happiness. The song conveys a sense of innocence and nostalgia, showcasing Melinda's discovery of a world that has been lost due to the war. It touches on themes of longing for a simpler time, the impact of war on families, and the desire for peace and happiness. The lyrics evoke a poignant and bittersweet atmosphere as they reflect on the consequences of war through the eyes of a child.
