The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Don't Fade Away" by the artist "Whitesnake"

In Whitesnake's "Don't Fade Away," the lyrical protagonist finds himself at a crossroads in life, metaphorically depicted as a "crossroad" illuminated by the setting sun. The sunset symbolizes fading time and the uncertainty of the future. The "cross of indecision" emphasizes the weight of the choice he has to make.

Despite a rich life experience ("seven wonders of the world," "seven seas"), encounters with "angels" and "gypsy queens" – symbolizing both the bright and dark sides of life – the hero is full of doubt. He has walked a "hard road" with many trials, but has not lost faith in the best.

He "prays for tomorrow," clings to "hopes and dreams," begging them "don't fade away." The "portraits" he has painted are a metaphor for the events he has experienced, both joyful and painful. Despite the "lies of life", he found the strength to move on, to start all over "again."

The hero appeals to a higher power ("heavens") for help in making a decision. The approaching "darkness" intensifies the feeling of fear and uncertainty. He asks to "light a light," to illuminate his way into the unknown.

At the end of the song, the hero returns to the image of the crossroads and the setting sun, still not knowing where to go. The final "don't fade away" sounds like a mantra, a desperate plea to keep hope and faith in himself alive.