Meaning of Elderberry Wine by Elton John

In Elton John's classic track, "Elderberry Wine," the singer takes us on a nostalgic journey filled with longing, reminiscing, and the desire for companionship. The overall theme of the song revolves around the wistful yearning for the past, to relive the carefree days and the warmth of a loving relationship. However, within this framework, there are several standout lyrics that convey unexpected yet imaginative themes that deepen the sentiment of the song.The first standout lyric that catches our attention is, "There's a trunk in the corner I keep all my letters, My bills and demands I keep too." This line not only portrays the physical clutter in the songwriter's life but also symbolizes emotional baggage, memories, and responsibilities that one carries throughout life. It touches upon the theme of holding onto the past, the weight of expectations, and the longing for simplicity.Another creative theme arises from the line, "Well, I can't help thinking about the times, You were a wife of mine." Here, the songwriter reflects on the chapter of being married and how it brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This theme highlights the desire for companionship, the longing for a partner who would support and inspire, and the comfort found in the routine of a committed relationship.One unexpected theme that emerges from the lyrics, "To pick the crop and get me hot on elderberry wine" is the idea of rejuvenation and passion. While elderberry wine could simply be a metaphor for the euphoria of love, it might also symbolize the elusive elixir of life. The crop to be picked could represent recharging one's energy or finding new purpose. This recurring theme signifies the longing for revitalization, a thirst for something that would reignite the songwriter's zest for living.Furthermore, the line, "The bottle went round like a woman down south, Passed on from hand to hand," introduces a sensual undertone. It hints at spirited escapades, flirtations, and the transient nature of pleasure. This theme suggests a desire for excitement, adventure, and a yearning for the intoxicating allure of the past.Delving deeper into the lyrics, we find a recurring motif: "Drunk all the time, feeling fine on elderberry wine, Those were the days, we'd lay in the haze, Forget depressive times." This repetition captures the essence of the song, emphasizing the yearning to escape from the burdens of reality. It explores the longing to forget the hardships of life, to revel in joy, and find solace in intoxication, be it literal or metaphorical. The theme reflects the desire for a refuge from the challenges that life presents.In closing, Elton John's "Elderberry Wine" captures the heartfelt yearning for a simpler, more contented past. The standout lyrics, explored through imaginative lenses, add depth to the themes of longing, companionship, rejuvenation, sensuality, and escape. Each lyric serves as a facet of the larger emotional tapestry woven by the overarching theme of the song. As we listen to this iconic track, it resonates with our own desires for fulfillment and reminds us of the timeless yearning for love, excitement, and the blissful simplicity of days gone by.