Meaning of Blues Never Fade Away by Elton John

The Elton John song, 'Blues Never Fade Away,' is a poignant and heartfelt tribute to those who have tragically passed away. The overall theme of the song revolves around the idea that even though people may leave this world, their impact is enduring, and their memories never fade away. It delves into the deep emotions of loss, grief, and remembrance, and explores how these experiences shape our lives.One standout lyric in the song is "He lost his life to a big disease before it even had a name." This lyric alludes to the AIDS epidemic that ravaged the world, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. It represents the profound loss experienced by Elton John and many others during this time. The theme this lyric helps develop is the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy. Despite the devastation caused by the disease, people persisted, and through their memories, their impact continues to touch lives.Another significant lyric is "She was twenty one with her life ahead, she breathed her last on the cold stone floor of a Hollywood arcade." This lyric portrays a young life cut short, lost in the hustle and bustle of a glamorous city. It brings forth the theme of the fragile and unpredictable nature of life. It reminds us that each moment is precious and every individual has dreams and aspirations that can be tragically halted. It signifies the importance of cherishing every opportunity and valuing the people around us.The chorus of the song further adds to the exploration of the theme. "Targets on the rifle range, who makes the call and who gets to choose? Who gets to win and who gets to lose? It's like a rolling dice in the belly of the blues." These lyrics touch upon the theme of fate and the arbitrary nature of life's struggles. They illustrate that life's circumstances can sometimes feel like a game of chance, where victory or tragedy can come without warning. It underscores the uncertainty in our lives and the need to find strength and resilience to navigate through the challenges we encounter.Moving on to the second verse, "He shone so bright with a lust for life, like the sun king that he was. His passions hung upon his walls and were printed onto cloth." These lyrics speak of an individual who lived life fully, embracing their passions and leaving behind a legacy. This lyric contributes to the theme of living life to the fullest and leaving a lasting impact. It encourages the listener to pursue their dreams wholeheartedly and to make their mark on the world, ensuring that their passions resonate even after they're gone.The bridge of the song also offers a powerful image, "And there's marble markers and little white crosses along the beaten path. And I've spread their ashes on the wind, and I miss John Lennon's laugh." These lyrics highlight the somber reality of mortality and the fragility of life. They express the act of remembrance and paying tribute to those who have passed away. Furthermore, it conveys the idea that even though someone may physically be gone, their presence and memories can still be cherished.In conclusion, 'Blues Never Fade Away' explores the theme of loss, grief, and remembrance. Through its evocative and heartfelt lyrics, the song encourages the listener to acknowledge the fleeting nature of life and to appreciate the impact individuals have on us. It encompasses themes of resilience, the fragility of life, the uncertainty of fate, living life passionately, and the act of remembrance. Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder that even though the blues may never fade away, the memories of those we have lost keep their spirit alive within us.