Meaning of In Neon by Elton John

The Elton John song titled 'In Neon' is a poignant and introspective exploration of the illusions and promises presented by a neon-lit city. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the captivating allure of urban life, contrasted with the harsh reality and emptiness that lie beneath its dazzling exterior.One standout lyric in the song is "Lipstick and lashes, the traces of stardom, Lit up on a billboard so everyone sees them in neon." This lyric conjures up the image of a person seeking fame and glamour, but ultimately finding themselves trapped in the surface-level facade of a neon-lit city. This theme explores the idea of the empty promises and superficiality that can be found in the pursuit of fame and recognition.Another important lyric is "A shimmering city, a glimmer of hope and a lie." This lyric suggests that the city, with its dazzling neon lights and promises of a better life, offers a glimmer of hope to those who seek it. However, it's also described as a lie, emphasizing the disillusionment and disappointment that can come from chasing an illusory dream. This theme touches upon the concept of the city acting as a mirage, luring people in with its false promises and leaving them unfulfilled.A particularly interesting interpretation of the lyrics is the idea that neon itself represents the themes of the song. Neon lights are bright and captivating, but they also have a transient quality. This ties into the concept of the fleeting dreams and promises that the song explores. Neon lights also have the ability to distort colors and create an artificial, almost otherworldly atmosphere, which can be seen as a metaphor for the way in which the city distorts reality and lures people into a false sense of hope.The line, "For two cents of danger she'd trust anybody, She'd smoke like a gun if it meant she might wind up," hints at the desperation that can arise from searching for validation in the city. It suggests a willingness to take risks and indulge in destructive behaviors, all in the hope of finding a sense of purpose or meaning. This theme delves into the darker side of the pursuit of dreams, highlighting the self-destructive tendencies that can emerge when one becomes too fixated on external validation.The lyric that mentions "Trust them and wind up alone behind a locked door" explores the theme of isolation and loneliness that can be felt, even in a vibrant city. It suggests that despite the external facades and promises presented by the neon-lit environment, ultimately, one can end up feeling isolated and trapped behind closed doors. This theme raises questions about the authenticity of connections and relationships in a bustling city, and the potential for a sense of disconnection despite being surrounded by a sea of people.Overall, 'In Neon' is a song that goes beyond the superficial glamour of the city and delves into the complex emotions and desires that drive individuals to chase their dreams. It explores the themes of illusion, disillusionment, the pursuit of fame, and the emptiness that can lie beneath the surface. The lyrics provide glimpses into the various aspects of this theme, offering a rich and imaginative exploration of the complexities of urban life and the human desire for validation and meaning in a neon-lit world.