This was originally going to be part of the celebrated, but aborted Smile album. The song was written by Van Dyke Parks (lyrics) and Brian Wilson (music) in an hour at Wilson's Chickering piano in 1966. In 1970 the song was completed by the rest of the Beach Boys under the supervision of Carl Wilson, and it became the title track of their 22nd album. It was also released as a single but didn't chart.
This song is about the innocent spirituality and innate love of youth, contrasted against the many imperfections and failings of adult society, who are pictured in a theater oblivious to what is going on outside. It is thought Van Dyke Parks was reflecting on the protests going on in America at the time about the Vietnam War.
The phrase, "Are you sleeping, Brother John?' is a reference to the children's song better known as "Frére Jacques."
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