Meaning of Original Sin by Elton John

The song 'Original Sin' by Elton John offers a profound exploration of temptation, desire, and the complex nature of sin. As the title suggests, the overall theme revolves around the concept of an original sin, a primal fault that is deeply embedded within human nature. Through a vivid fusion of imagery and poetic lyrics, Elton John delves into the various facets of sin and its irresistible allure. Exploring the song's standout lyrics unveils unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the song's profound portrayal of the human condition.The opening lyrics set the tone for the whole song, immersing us in the atmosphere of a carnival night. The stringing lights and painted angels symbolize the alluring facade of temptation, drawing us into a world of pleasure and desire. The "furnace wind" flickering around the face signifies the contradictory feelings that sin evokes, simultaneously enticing and unsettling. This imagery introduces the theme of duality, highlighting how sin can be both captivating and hazardous, like a cloud of incense smelling like Heaven yet permeating with darkness.The chorus lyrics, "I can't eat, can't sleep, Still I hunger for you when you look at me," depict the powerful grip of desire and its ability to consume an individual's thoughts and emotions. This sparks the exploration of the theme of obsession, where the stimulation of one's senses becomes an all-consuming force. The face and eyes mentioned in the lyrics represent the physical allure and captivating gaze of temptation, while the sinful pleasures refer to the deeper cravings and forbidden desires lurking beneath the surface.In the following verse, the lyrics reveal a metaphorical dream that dissipates when one opens their eyes. This evokes the transient nature of temptation and pleasure, which often fades once confronted with reality. The idea of ghosts from every corner of one's life symbolizes the lingering impact of past indiscretions and the shadows of temptation that continue to haunt an individual. This introduces the theme of consequences, illustrating how engaging in sin can leave a lasting mark on a person's life, complicating their present and future.The bridge lyrics, namely "Tell me how, you know now, the ways and means of getting in, Underneath my skin," provokes introspection into the nature of sin. It highlights the invasive quality of temptation, how it can seep into one's very being and become an integral part of their identity. This lyric illuminates the theme of internal conflict, accentuating the struggle between succumbing to temptation and maintaining moral integrity. The dangerous game mentioned refers to the delicate balance between indulging in desire and the potential self-destruction it can bring.Finally, the repetition of the chorus lyrics emphasizes the enduring power and impact of the original sin. The notion that the original sin is deeply ingrained, inseparable from one's core, reinforces the concept of human frailty and the perennial struggle against temptation. This ties back to the overarching theme, emphasizing the universal struggle with sin and the ongoing battle to resist its allure.In conclusion, Elton John's 'Original Sin' delves into the intricate complexities of temptation, desire, and sin. By unraveling the song's standout lyrics, we uncover unexpected themes that contribute to a profound portrayal of the human condition. Be it the duality of sin, the omnipresent consequences, the consuming nature of obsession, the internal conflict, or the enduring power of the original sin itself, the song offers imaginative and thought-provoking perspectives on these universal themes. Ultimately, 'Original Sin' serves as a compelling exploration of the irresistible allure and everlasting impact of sin in our lives.