This is the kind of bittersweet but ballsy song that ian hunter is so brilliant at writing. A kid is born in post-wwii england, right at this huge cultural turning point for the country, which he can see, even though he's young. He's got solitary ambition, falls in love with music, sets out to make his mark - "the heart and the arrow", representing his love for a girl, and for music - his passion for life. He thinks he can find meaning, and even safety, if he carves a big enough niche. He finds out all marks are temporary, and that being alone sucks. Has good and glorious intentions, but they don't pan out in a straightforward way. The song is about high aspirations, the world-conquering passion of youth, and a defiant, transcendent love of rock & roll. Also the disappointments that can happen when things don't live up to expectations, and the realization that nothing lasts forever, even you. Mostly you. It's never been said better than he says it here. This is great, inspiring rock & roll.