Meaning of Oscar Wilde Gets Out by Elton John

The Elton John song "Oscar Wilde Gets Out" delves into the life and experiences of the great Irish writer Oscar Wilde, particularly his time in Reading Jail and his subsequent exile. The themes explored in this song are profound and thought-provoking, touching on ideas of freedom, persecution, societal indifference, and the transformative power of art.One standout lyric in the song is "Freedom for the scapegoat leaving Reading Jail." This lyric sets the tone for the exploration of freedom as a central theme in the song. It highlights Wilde's imprisonment and subsequent release, emphasizing the contrasting emotions of confinement and liberation. Wilde, throughout his life and particularly during his time in jail, was seen as a scapegoat by society, unjustly persecuted for his sexuality and perceived immorality.The lyrics "Rheumy eyes just pierced his heart like crucifixion nails" suggest the immense pain Wilde endured during his time in jail. The reference to crucifixion nails implies the depth of suffering he experienced and alludes to the parallel between his persecution and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This lyric serves to highlight the unjust treatment and emotional agony Wilde endured, solidifying the theme of persecution and martyrdom."When the ink ran red on Fleet Street" is another standout lyric that underscores the power and consequences of public opinion. Fleet Street, historically known for housing British newspapers, represents the media and its ability to shape public perception. The lyric implies that Wilde's reputation and downfall were fueled by the sensationalism and condemnation of the press. It speaks to the destructive nature of judgment and the lasting impact of public opinion on an individual's life.The line "Humbled far from Dublin, chased across the waves" touches on the theme of exile and the loss of one's home and cultural identity. It highlights Wilde's displacement and the profound impact it had on his life and work. Exile, in this context, becomes a metaphor for the alienation and isolation an individual may experience when they don't conform to societal norms."The bitter pill you swallowed tasted sweeter going down" is a powerful lyric that explores the transformative power of personal experiences. It suggests that while Wilde's sufferings were bitter at the time, they ultimately shaped and defined him. The bitter pill analogy implies that adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation.The chorus lyrics "Looking back on the great indifference, looking back at the limestone walls" weave together the themes of indifference and confinement. The great indifference refers to both Wilde's persecution by society and the general apathy and lack of empathy prevalent in society. The limestone walls symbolize the physical and metaphorical barriers that hinder individuals from true freedom and self-expression. This chorus lyric emphasizes the oppressive nature of societal norms and the need for individuals to break free from these confines."A golden boy in velveteen landed in New York" introduces the theme of escape and reinvention. This lyric speaks to Wilde's journey to America and his attempt to rebuild his life after his time in jail. It explores the transformative power of relocation and the potential for freedom and reinvention in new environments."Felt like the head of John the Baptist in the arms of Salome" delves into themes of sacrifice and the destructive power of desire. The reference to Salome, the biblical figure who famously requested the beheading of John the Baptist, alludes to Wilde's downfall due to his forbidden desires. It highlights the dangers of succumbing to one's passions and the potential for self-destruction.The bridge lyrics evoke a sense of isolation and longing for connection. The white gull screaming represents Wilde's desperate cry for freedom and understanding, while the caution against speaking out loud speaks to the fear of judgment and societal repercussions. The "exiled Unforgiven" represents Wilde's status as an outcast in society, forever marked by his past and unable to find forgiveness or acceptance.In conclusion, the song "Oscar Wilde Gets Out" by Elton John delves into the multifaceted themes of freedom, persecution, exile, and transformation. Each standout lyric contributes to the development of these themes, exploring the impact of societal judgment, the power of personal experiences, and the longing for understanding and connection. Wilde's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of indifference and the transformative power of art in the face of adversity. This song invites listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of society, personal freedom, and the importance of compassion and understanding.