The lyrics of Uriah Heep's song "Pilgrim" tell the story of a pilgrim who embarks on a journey of goodness and spreads joy wherever he goes. The pilgrim is described as a person sent by heaven and blessed by God. The song emphasizes the contrast between the pilgrim's peaceful existence and the harsh realities of war. It suggests that those who have not experienced war should not try to create it, as so many have suffered and died in its wake. The lyrics pose a question, asking whether the listener thinks they could handle the horrors of war. The song shifts its focus to love, describing it as something that waits for us, like a beautiful and undeniable truth. Love is compared to the core of an apple, implying that it is an essential part of life. The lyrics also touch on the personal struggles of the singer, who was caught up in the pursuit of fame and adoration but neglected his true love. He reflects on the battles he has won and the cheers of victory he has heard, but realizes that he has lost the woman he truly loved. The singer acknowledges that he had to choose between love and war, and in the end, he lost both. Overall, "Pilgrim" conveys a message about the power of love and the destructive nature of war. It encourages the listener to prioritize love and understanding in a world often consumed by conflict and violence.
