Meaning of Sad by Elton John

In Elton John's hauntingly beautiful song titled 'Sad', the overall theme centers around the bittersweet nature of life and the passage of time. Through poetic lyrics and a melancholic melody, John captures the essence of moments lost and the inevitable changes that occur as we journey through life. Each lyric within this song helps to develop unique and unexpected themes, all of which contribute to the overarching theme of sadness and the complexities of human experience.The first verse of 'Sad' introduces us to an old scarecrow, a symbol of loneliness and abandonment. The scarecrow represents the human condition - transient and forgotten. Here, the theme of longing for connection emerges, highlighting the melancholy inherent in being cast aside and left to wither in isolation. The realization that the scarecrow is "no longer sown by anyone" evokes a deep sense of sadness and reflects the fleeting nature of relationships and the ephemeral nature of existence.Moving into the chorus, the repetition of "Sad, so sad" further emphasizes the overarching theme of the song. The simplicity of these words echoes the complexities of human emotions and experiences. It speaks to the deep sadness that resides within us all and acknowledges that sadness is an integral part of the human condition. The repetition also serves to intensify the emotional impact of the song, creating a haunting and unforgettable refrain.The second verse delves into nostalgia and the loss of innocence. The image of writing "childish words" beneath the branches and holding a dandelion portrays a sense of youthful naivety and innocence. The lyrics convey a desire to cling onto the fleeting moments of joy and beauty experienced during childhood, but also acknowledge the inevitability of change as "summer burned the earth again." The theme of nostalgia interwoven with the passage of time adds depth to the song's overall theme, highlighting the bitter realization that innocence and simplicity may fade as life unfolds.Additionally, the bridge, which simply states "No longer sown by anyone," serves as a poignant reminder of our mortality and the profound loneliness that can come with it. This line reinforces the themes of abandonment and isolation introduced in the first verse, while also hinting at the transient nature of human existence. It evokes a sense of vulnerability and fragility, reminding us that we are all comprised of moments that will eventually be forgotten.Returning to the chorus, the repetition of "Sad, so sad" now takes on a new dimension. It becomes a reflection on the complexity of human emotions and experiences. The repetition helps to express the multitude of ways that sadness can manifest, from heartbreak and loss to fleeting moments of melancholic beauty. It serves as a reminder that sadness is not a singular emotion but a myriad of interconnected emotions that shape our lives.Overall, the song 'Sad' by Elton John delves into the landscape of human emotions, exploring themes of longing, nostalgia, abandonment, and the passage of time. Each lyric weaves a unique thread within the tapestry of sadness, creating a rich and multi-layered experience for the listener. Through the evocative power of his lyrics and emotive musical composition, Elton John invites us to contemplate the complexities of our own lives and find solace in the beauty of melancholy.