Both pieces are exploring the concept of the loss of childhood innocence. Yeats states, "...away with us he's going...," and Chapin sings, " I've long since retired, my son's moved away..." This is inferring that Yeats' use of "...away with us he's going...," connects with Chapin's relationship with his son. Chapin's dedication for his job and bills resulted as a departure from his son. His opportunity of experiencing childhood moments with his son is never to be seen again. Likewise, the lost child that Yeats mentions is drawn from his childhood after accepting to withdraw from the world.
Although both pieces have significant similarities, one striking distinction sticks out, Chapin's distant relationship with his son is more tragic. Chapin
Although both pieces have significant similarities, one striking distinction sticks out, Chapin's distant relationship with his son is more tragic. Chapin