Meaning of Mr. Rubin by Elton John

In Elton John's thought-provoking song "Mr. Rubin," the artist addresses a powerful and controversial figure who stirs up hatred and division among people. The overarching theme of the song revolves around the importance of love, trust, and the destructive nature of extremism. Through poignant lyrics, John invites listeners to reflect on the harmful consequences of forgetting love and succumbing to narrow-minded ideologies.One standout lyric in "Mr. Rubin" is, "The world has gone rotten so do what you must." This line suggests a prevailing sense of disillusionment and despair in our society. It explores the idea that some individuals, like Mr. Rubin, believe the world has become corrupted beyond repair. However, the theme that emerges from this lyric is the need to challenge this pessimistic perspective. It encourages us to consider that, despite the difficulties we face, love can still be a guiding force to heal wounds and rebuild bridges between people.Continuing on, the line "There's a strange lack of vision that's driving you on" exposes an intriguing perspective on extremism. Instead of outright condemning Mr. Rubin's radical mindset, John prompts us to question the motivation behind it. The theme that arises here is the notion that extremists may be driven by a skewed perception of reality or a misinterpretation of their role in society. By exploring this imaginative theme, the song invites empathy and understanding towards such individuals, even as their actions may be harmful.Moreover, the lyrics, "It's people like you who's gonna blow it, while standing there blocking the light," highlight the destructive impact of extremism on progress and positive change. This theme emphasizes the detrimental consequences of embracing rigid belief systems, which hinder progress and obstruct the potential for unity and cooperation. The imagery of "blocking the light" alludes to the suppression of hope and inclusivity, reminding us that without love and understanding, we are inadvertently contributing to our own downfall.In another thought-provoking line, John sings, "There's porns of the devil who don't know his name." This poetic metaphor suggests that the real evil lies in ignorance of our own flaws and the erroneous attribution of evil to others. This theme challenges the black-and-white thinking prevalent in extremism, urging individuals to look inward and confront their own shortcomings rather than placing blame solely on external forces. It serves as a reminder that true understanding and unity can only be achieved when we acknowledge our shared humanity.The closing lyrics, "In a world short on love, Mr. Rubin, so don't forget love, Oh no, don't forget love," bring the song full circle, reiterating the song's central theme. They convey a yearning for a more compassionate and inclusive world. With this final theme, Elton John emphasizes that love is not just a fleeting emotion but a necessity for the betterment of humankind."Mr. Rubin" challenges listeners to contemplate the destructive power of hatred and the importance of embracing love and understanding in an increasingly divided world. It encourages us to question our own perspectives, empathize with those who hold extreme views, and strive for unity. Through its imaginative exploration of various themes, this song calls upon us to remember that love is not just a sentiment but a powerful force that can transform lives and society for the better.