Meaning of Emily by Elton John

In Elton John's poignant song "Emily," the lyrics evoke a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. The overall theme revolves around the concept of mortality and the passing of time, as seen through the lens of Emily, the central character. This article will explore the song's different standout lyrics, delving into their hidden meanings and imaginative themes, while staying true to the overarching theme of the song.One lyric that stands out is, "Passed a dog in an unmarked grave." This seemingly small detail takes on a deeper meaning when examined through the lens of mortality. The image of a dog buried in an unmarked grave symbolizes the transient and forgettable nature of life, both for humans and animals alike. It serves as a reminder that our existence, no matter how significant or insignificant, ultimately fades away.Another intriguing lyric is, "I saw a lie in the mirror this morning, I heard a prophecy all around." This line suggests the presence of deception and the blurring of truth within one's perception of reality. It speaks to the idea that we often deceive ourselves or fall prey to the illusions that surround us. This theme intertwines with the broader concept of mortality, highlighting how our perception of time can be distorted or affected by lies, both internal and external.As the song progresses, a sense of spirituality enters the narrative with the lyric, "Emily prays to a faded hero." This line explores the theme of faith and its significance in the face of mortality. Emily finds solace in her devotion to a "faded hero," symbolizing her unwavering faith despite the passing of time. It touches on the notion that belief in something greater can provide comfort and meaning in the face of life's fleeting nature.Additionally, the impact of memories and their relevance to the present moment is unveiled with the lyric, "Hears the voice of promise in his memory, Tonight's the night they let the ladder down." This suggests that memories hold immense power, as they allow us to connect with people and past experiences. The reference to "the ladder" implies the possibility of transcending mortality through the recollection of cherished memories. It highlights the idea that memories can serve as a lifeline, offering hope and purpose in the midst of the transient nature of life.Moreover, the lyric, "Canary sings to an empty room," portrays a deeply resonating yet bittersweet image. The canary represents a sense of life, joy, and freedom, while the empty room symbolizes the emptiness and loneliness that can surround us in our journey through life. It suggests that even amidst the fleeting nature of our existence, we can still find beauty and solace in the smaller, insignificant moments that may happen when nobody is watching.Ultimately, "Emily" is a song that beautifully captures the universal themes of mortality, the passing of time, faith, and the power of memories. Each standout lyric adds depth to these themes, unveiling unexpected and imaginative interpretations. Whether it is the image of an unmarked grave or a canary singing in an empty room, Elton John's song reminds us to reflect on the value of our fleeting existence, find solace in our memories, and seek meaning in the face of the transient nature of life's journey.