Meaning of Zanzibar by Billy Joel

The Billy Joel song 'Zanzibar' takes listeners on a journey through the world of nightlife, jazz music, and the desire for escape. The song's overall theme revolves around the yearning for freedom, self-expression, and defiance of societal norms. Through its lyrics, 'Zanzibar' delves into various themes such as the pursuit of passion, the allure of hidden desires, and the struggle between conformity and rebellion.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Ali dances and the audience applauds, though he's bathed in sweat, he hasn't lost his style." This lyric brings forth the theme of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. It highlights the dedication and passion of the character Ali, who continues to captivate the audience despite the physical demands of his performance. This theme symbolizes the struggle many face in pursuing their dreams, where success requires perseverance and the ability to adapt to difficult circumstances.Another important lyric in 'Zanzibar' is "Me, I'm just another face at Zanzibar, but the waitress always serves a secret smile." This lyric represents the theme of hidden desires and a longing for a deeper connection. It portrays the protagonist as an ordinary individual who finds solace and intrigue in the interactions and attention received at the Zanzibar nightclub. The secret smile of the waitress suggests the existence of a clandestine world within the walls of the club, where fantasies and unspoken desires can be explored.The line "I've got the old man's car, I've got a jazz guitar" introduces the themes of escapism and the desire for personal freedom. The old man's car symbolizes the weight of responsibility and societal expectations, while the jazz guitar represents the protagonist's creative outlet and source of personal liberation. These themes emphasize the importance of finding one's own voice and pursuing passions that bring joy and fulfillment, away from the constraints of societal norms.The lyrics "Rose, he knows he's such a credit to the game, but the Yankees grab the headlines every time" address the theme of overshadowing and the struggle for recognition. Rose, a character in the song, represents an individual who possesses immense talent and skill in a particular field. However, the constant attention given to the Yankees, a symbol of mainstream success and popularity, overshadows his achievements. This theme explores the often overlooked and underappreciated talents of individuals, sparking a sense of frustration and the desire to break free from the shadows.The lyric "Me, I'm trying just to get to second base, and I'd steal it if she only gave the sign" represents the theme of desire and the pursuit of intimate connections. It delves into the protagonist's romantic aspirations and willingness to take risks to fulfill those desires. This theme speaks to the universal longing for love and connection, while also reflecting the tension between societal expectations and individual desires.In conclusion, 'Zanzibar' by Billy Joel encompasses a wide array of themes that contribute to the overall theme of freedom, self-expression, and the struggle against conformity. The song examines the pursuit of passion, the allure of hidden desires, the battle for recognition, and the yearning for personal connection. Each lyric explored through unexpected and imaginative themes ultimately reinforces the idea that true fulfillment lies in embracing one's individuality and pursuing one's passions, against the backdrop of societal expectations.