"Once When I Was Little" by James Morrison is a nostalgic song that reflects on the innocence and optimism of childhood. The lyrics depict a time in the singer's life when he approached the world with boundless curiosity and imagination. He reminisces about the carefree days when he would eagerly jump into new experiences and never worry about the consequences. In his childhood, the singer believed that he could achieve anything, dream big, and create endless possibilities. He mentions building a rocket and flying to the moon, emphasizing the limitless nature of his childhood dreams. The singer also highlights his unwavering trust in others and his fearlessness in exploring new places. He used to spend his days on the hillside, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. As the song progresses, the singer recognizes the loss of his childlike innocence and naivety. He acknowledges that he used to feel strong and confident even when others doubted him. However, he acknowledges that life has changed, and he now faces the reality that he must conform to societal expectations and responsibilities. Despite this realization, the singer longs for the days when he could still believe and pretend that the world would only bring him good times. He expresses a yearning to return to that state of mind, where he felt free and unburdened by the pressures of adulthood. The song serves as a reminder to cherish the innocence of youth and to hold onto the optimism and belief that life can be better. It reflects on the bittersweet realization that time moves quickly and urges listeners to embrace the present moment before it slips away.
