"Days of Farewell" is a song by John Mellencamp from his album "Mr. Happy Go Lucky" released in 1996. The song reflects on the troubled times we live in and encourages caution and awareness in how we navigate through them. The lyrics suggest that the present days are filled with evil and people should be careful about their actions and words as there are others who may be listening and judging. The song emphasizes the need to be cautious about the company we keep, as not everyone may have our best interests at heart. It warns against getting involved in any unethical or dishonest activities, as it can have grave consequences. The chorus, "These are the days of farewell, Halfway undecided, That's our peace," speaks to the uncertain and tumultuous nature of the times we live in. It suggests that peace can be fleeting and fragile in such a world. The song takes a religious turn in the middle section, where Mellencamp interjects a spiritual message. He expresses gratitude to God for sparing him and his daughter from the HIV virus and acknowledges that his faith and praise for the Lord remain unwavering. The mention of HIV likely refers to the AIDS epidemic, which was a major health concern during that period. The song concludes by urging the listener not to pretend to be someone they are not and to be grateful for what they have. It emphasizes the need for self-awareness and honesty. Overall, "Days of Farewell" is a reflection on the challenging times we face, reminding listeners to be mindful of their actions, choose their companions wisely, and stay true to themselves. It also spotlights the importance of faith and gratitude in navigating through these uncertain times.
