Meaning of Oceans Away by Elton John

In the heartfelt song "Oceans Away" by Elton John, the overall theme revolves around the nostalgia, memories, and the passage of time. As we delve into the lyrics, we are transported into a world where the old folks, symbolizing the past and wisdom, take center stage. Each lyric adds another layer to the overarching theme, touching on various topics such as sacrifice, legacy, and the interconnectedness of generations.The opening verse sets the tone, presenting the narrator's desire to gain wisdom from the older generation. They hope to bridge the gap between themselves and those who have experienced more of life. This yearning for understanding highlights the idea that wisdom is not exclusively obtained through one's own experiences but by learning from others.One lyric that stands out is "Those that flew and those that fell, the ones that had to stay beneath a little wooden cross oceans away." This line paints a vivid and poignant picture of those who bravely fought in war and made the ultimate sacrifice. It explores the theme of sacrifice and the bittersweet contrast between those who were able to fly and those who perished, depicted symbolically as those who had to stay beneath the wooden crosses. This theme of sacrifice serves as a reminder of the courage and selflessness of previous generations.Moving on, the song describes the old folks as "shuffling old grey lions," comparing their resilience to trees in winter. This beautiful imagery signifies the strength and fortitude that still lies within the aging generation. Additionally, the reference to snow-white stars gathering like the belt around Orion symbolizes the celestial bond between generations. It suggests that even though time passes, there is still a connection between the past and present.Furthermore, the lyric "Just to touch the faded lightning of their powerful design" embraces the idea of tracing back the origins, the roots, and the legacy of the older generation. It conjures imagery of a generation gathering for a possibly final time, emphasizing the significance of cherishing and learning from the wisdom that is slowly fading away.One unexpected and imaginative theme that arises from the lyrics is the continuity of life. The line "Where the green grass sways and the cool wind blows across the shadow of their graves" evokes a sense of comfort and peace. It suggests that even though the older generation may have passed on, their spirits live on through the memories and legacies they leave behind. This theme celebrates the endless cycle of life, where each generation carries forward the torch of wisdom, building upon the foundations laid by their predecessors.Another thematic layer that emerges from the lyrics is the exploration of intergenerational connections. The repeated line "Call 'em up, 'n dust 'em off, let them shine" encourages us to reach out to the older generation, not only to reminisce but also to learn from their experiences and honor their stories. It is a reminder that the bridge between generations should not be neglected or undervalued.In conclusion, "Oceans Away" by Elton John takes us on a rich and emotional journey through the themes of wisdom, sacrifice, legacy, continuity of life, and intergenerational connections. Through its poignant lyrics, the song stimulates our imagination, urging us to reflect upon the importance of cherishing and learning from the past while embracing the present. It serves as an ode to the old folks, reminding us of the valuable wisdom they hold and encouraging us to bridge the divide between generations. So, let's hearken to the call, dust off those memories, and let them shine, for the echoes of those who came before us can guide us through the oceans of life.