Meaning of Flying by Elton John

In Elton John's iconic song "Flying," the overarching theme revolves around longing for home and a deep connection to a loved one. Through its heartfelt lyrics, the song captures the emotions of a traveler who is yearning to return to their place of origin, emphasizing the profound impact that home and love have on one's life. Let's dive deep into some standout lyrics that help explore unexpected and imaginative themes while still serving the primary message of the song.The opening lines, "I'm flying across the ocean, and I'm soaring back home to the place I was born," immediately sets the stage for the core theme of longing for home. However, this longing goes beyond the physical place; it encompasses the warmth, familiarity, and comfort associated with one's hometown. It refers to the journey that takes one back to their roots, both physically and emotionally.The lyric, "You know that I'm flying across the mountains and valleys, back home to the one that I love so much," introduces another layer of the song's theme - the power of love. While the protagonist's desire to return home initially focuses on their birthplace, they are ultimately motivated by their deep affection for a person they hold dear. This lyric highlights the interconnectedness of love and the concept of home. It implies that being with someone who truly loves and supports us feels like coming back to a place where we truly belong.Moving on, the lines, "Now don't blame me for feeling homesick, I have been away for such a very long, long time," evoke an unexpected theme - the significance of absence. Absence, in this context, becomes a catalyst for realizing the importance of home and love. It is only through being away for an extended duration that the protagonist recognizes the depth of their longing. This idea sparks the notion that absence not only makes the heart grow fonder but also helps one appreciate the true essence and value of the things they miss.In the verse, "Lord, you know I served once in the county jail, and I feel strong for being hungry, tired, and poor," another imaginative theme surfaces - the transformative power of adversity. While the song primarily focuses on emotional longing, this lyric implies that difficult experiences can shape one's character and strengthen their resolve. It hints at the idea that these adversities, although challenging, have made the protagonist appreciate the simple comforts of home and their loved one even more. It proposes that through hardship, one can find resilience and realize the importance of the things that truly matter.Lastly, the recurring line, "On and on, guess I was born to run, with your buttons and bows," echoes throughout the song and symbolizes a resolute and unyielding spirit. It signifies an innate drive within the protagonist to seek out their home and love, no matter the obstacles faced. This idea of being "born to run" can be interpreted as a metaphor for living life with a constant pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. The mention of "buttons and bows" adds a touch of whimsy and suggests that the journey home is not only an emotional one but also a playful and joyful pursuit.In conclusion, Elton John's "Flying" explores the themes of longing for home, the profound influence of love, the significance of absence, the transformative power of adversity, and the resolute nature of the human spirit. By analyzing standout lyrics and diving into imaginative and unexpected themes, we gain a deeper understanding of the emotional depth and universal human experiences encapsulated within the song. "Flying" serves as a reminder of the immense impact that home and love have on shaping our lives, and it encourages us to cherish the connections we hold dear while embracing the journey that takes us closer to where our hearts truly belong.