Meaning of The Great Wall of China by Billy Joel

In Billy Joel's song "The Great Wall of China," the singer explores various themes through his introspective lyrics. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around missed opportunities, lost faith, and the consequences of one's actions. It delves into the complexities of relationships, the fragile nature of trust, and the power dynamics that exist within them. Through a series of standout lyrics, Joel skillfully weaves different themes that lend an unexpected and imaginative depth to the song.One particular lyric that stands out is, "Some words are not heard 'til after they're spoken." This line highlights the importance of communication and the impact our words can have, even if they are not immediately recognized. It suggests that we often fail to realize the weight of our own words until the aftermath, and that the consequences of those words can shape our lives and relationships. This theme emphasizes the significance of mindful and authentic communication to avoid misunderstandings and ensure the preservation of trust.Another striking line is, "You never win if you can't play it straight, you only beat me if you get me to hate." This lyric emphasizes the idea that true victories are not achieved through manipulation or deception. It suggests that it is disingenuous to gain an advantage by feeding into negativity or creating resentment. By exploring this theme, Joel touches on the importance of honesty, integrity, and the detrimental consequences of playing games in relationships.Addressing the fragility of trust, the line, "Somebody else's life to live if they let you," conveys feelings of betrayal and the repercussions of putting our faith in the wrong people. It emphasizes the need for discernment and caution in extending trust, as it can easily be misplaced or taken advantage of. This theme adds another layer of complexity to the song, highlighting the impact broken trust can have on our lives and the difficulty of moving forward.Joel's lyrics also touch on the missed opportunities and regrets that come hand in hand with failed relationships. The line, "We could have gone all the way to the Great Wall of China," symbolizes the vast distance that could have been traveled together, both metaphorically and literally. It signifies the potential for something great, an adventure or shared experience, that was never realized due to the lack of faith, trust, or commitment. This theme prompts reflection on the what-ifs and contemplation of the roads not taken in our own lives.Furthermore, the song explores the concept of self-awareness and acceptance. The lyric, "Keep things in perspective, this is my true objective, why tear this heart out if it's only been broken?" suggests that rather than dwelling on past mistakes or lamenting over heartbreak, it is essential to maintain a broader perspective. It encourages embracing the lessons learned from failed relationships and the growth that can arise from overcoming adversity. This theme adds a hopeful note to the song, reminding us that even in the midst of disappointment, we can find strength and resilience.In sum, "The Great Wall of China" by Billy Joel is a multifaceted song that delves into themes of missed opportunities, lost faith, and the consequences of our actions. Through standout lyrics, Joel expands on these ideas, exploring communication, trust, missed chances, regret, and self-awareness. By intertwining these unexpected and imaginative themes, the song invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of relationships and the profound impact our choices can have on their outcomes.