About the song
“Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is a timeless anthem that resonates with generations, carrying poignant messages of guidance and wisdom. Released in 1970 as part of the album “Déjà Vu,” this folk-rock masterpiece was penned by Graham Nash, a founding member of the iconic group.
The song’s serene melody and heartfelt lyrics reflect on the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the importance of passing down knowledge and values from one generation to the next. It speaks to the universal experience of parenthood and the profound impact parents have on shaping the perspectives and beliefs of their children.
“Teach Your Children” struck a chord with audiences upon its release, climbing the charts and becoming a staple of the era’s counterculture movement. Its comforting reassurances and gentle melodies captured the spirit of a generation grappling with social upheaval and seeking solace in the bonds of family.
Throughout the years, the song has remained relevant, its message enduring through changing times and resonating with listeners of all ages. It has earned its place as a classic in the folk-rock canon and continues to inspire new generations with its timeless wisdom and melodic beauty.
With its soothing harmonies and profound lyrics, “Teach Your Children” serves as a gentle reminder of the enduring power of love, guidance, and the importance of passing down cherished values from one generation to the next.
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Lyrics
You, who are on the road
Must have a code you try to live by
And so become yourself
Because the past is just a goodbye
Teach your children well
Their father’s hell did slowly go by
Feed them on your dreams
The one they pick’s the one you’ll know by
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
And you, of tender years
Can’t know the fears your elders grew by
Help them with your youth
They seek the truth before they can die
Teach your parents well
Their children’s hell will slowly go by
And feed them on your dreams
The one they pick’s the one you’ll know by
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
Don’t you ever ask them why
If they told you, you would cry
So just look at them and sigh
And know they love you
Ooh, and know they love you
And know they love you, yeah
And know they love you