John Stewart's song "Mother Country" reflects on the past and the people who lived during earlier times. The lyrics mention a story about an old lady who lived during the turn of a new century. She says that the "good old days" were simply people doing the best they could. The song also mentions photographs of men who stood knee deep in the mud during a terrible flood and put away their childhood dreams. The song then tells the story of a man named E.A. Stuart who owned a champion horse named "Sweetheart on Parade." Before going blind, Stuart wanted to drive her one more time. People came from miles around to witness the event and as Stuart drove the horse, the people cheered and some even cried. Shortly after, Stuart passed away. Throughout the song, the refrain repeats the line "Oh mother country, I do love you". This line serves as a reminder of the love and appreciation for the land and the people who have lived on it. The song portrays a sense of nostalgia and a longing for a simpler time.
