Quote

In a sense, 'American Pie' was a very despairing song but it can also be seen as very hopeful.

Pessimism only describes an attitude, and not facts, and hence is entirely subjective.

Basically, in 'American Pie,' things are heading in the wrong direction. It is becoming less ideal, less idyllic. I don't know whether you consider that wrong or right, but it is a morality song in a sense.

These days I wonder more and more why people are pessimistic when American history actually supports optimism.

I'm very pessimistic.

You know, the pessimism which exists now in the Middle East existed in Northern Ireland, but we stayed at it.

American Pie speaks to the loss that we feel. That's why that song has found the niche that it has.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.