I didn't know we were at war
I've been away so long
Trying to help once lost men

Distinguish right from wrong
I didn't know we killed the men
Our leaders proud and strong

The situation's changed my friend
I've been away too long


I taught my friends
How we had gained respect for every man
And freedom flowed like jungle streams

While peace embraced the land
I told them how we'd learn to change
Our sword blades into plows

I told them how they should learn from us
What should I tell them now


'Cause I didn't know we were at war
I've been away so long
Trying to help once lost men

Distinguish right from wrong

The jungle silence shut them off

From civilized mankind
Their nakedness was no disgrace
No censors could I find

The population lived in peace
All brothers on their own
And now that I have seen the mess

I don't think I'll go home

'Cause I didn't know we were at war

I've been away so long
I told them they should learn from us
I think I told them wrong