Meaning of Postcards From Richard Nixon by Elton John

Elton John's song "Postcards From Richard Nixon" takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the tumultuous era of Richard Nixon's presidency, exploring themes of disillusionment, identity, and the American dream. The lyrics vividly depict the experiences and perceptions of two naive souls who find themselves caught up in the wave of history, as Nixon welcomes them to the United States.One standout lyric in the song is "The common sense I sometimes lack has opened up a seismic crack." This line not only showcases the songwriter's self-awareness but also suggests a deeper theme of personal growth. The seismic crack can symbolize a rupture in the characters' perspectives and their gradual understanding of the complexities of the world they thought they knew. It highlights the struggle to reconcile their own naïveté with the harsh reality of political and social shifts during Nixon's presidency.Another poignant lyric is "A little camouflage and glue to mask the evil that men do, a small diversion caused by two pale kids come to play." This line explores the theme of innocence and the power of representation. It suggests that the two pale kids, symbolizing the young generation, unintentionally become pawns in Nixon's political game. This theme underscores the idea that individuals, even with good intentions, can unknowingly perpetuate or contribute to a corrupt system out of ignorance or naivety.The line "And pretty soon we were 'Where it's at', or so the papers say" reflects the theme of societal perception and the influence of media. It explores the disparity between the public image projected by the characters and their internal experiences. The papers' portrayal creates expectations and shapes their identity in a way that may not align with their true selves. This theme resonates with the notion of celebrity culture and the pressure to conform to a manufactured ideal.The lyric "In a bright red Porsche on Sunset, I saw Steve McQueen" introduces themes of fame and idolization. The mention of Steve McQueen, a legendary actor of the time, adds to the portrayal of the characters' disorientation within the glamorous landscape of Hollywood. It reflects their desire to emulate and be accepted by the icons of popular culture. This theme emphasizes the allure of materialistic success and the pursuit of the American dream during this era.Finally, the closing line "Pale kids come to play, and we heard Richard Nixon say, 'I’ve gotta go but you can stay'" leaves a lasting impression. It captures a sense of abandonment and loss, highlighting the fleeting nature of fame and the loneliness that can accompany it. The contrasting images of pale kids playing and Nixon's departure symbolize the departure of innocence or idealism, signaling a recognition of the harsh reality beyond the glitz and glamour.Overall, "Postcards From Richard Nixon" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities and contradictions of the era. It delves into themes of personal growth, innocence lost, societal perception, idolization, and the American dream. Elton John's lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia while inviting listeners to reflect on their own perceptions and experiences of navigating an ever-changing world.