This is a very well put together video describing the story and subtext of Ocarina of Time, and how it may be the saddest Zelda game.

If you can't be bothered with the whole thing, I highly recommend from the 20 minute mark onwards to the end. Representing the stark transition from childhood to adulthood and how it changes not only the environment to a more bleak atmosphere.

I can't do it justice so if you have 10 or so minutes give the last 13 a shot.