Meaning of Sails by Elton John

The Elton John song "Sails" is a poetic masterpiece that invites listeners on a journey into a dreamlike world of imagination and symbolism. The song's overall theme centers around the idea of seeking adventure, exploring new horizons, and finding solace in the presence of a loved one. Throughout the song, Elton John takes listeners on a vivid voyage filled with intricate imagery and mysterious narratives. Let's delve into some of the standout lyrics and the themes they help develop, all of which tie back to the overarching theme of the song.In the opening verse, Elton John sets the scene by describing the presence of merchant seamen and the pursuit of a better life or exotic treasures. Here, the theme of exploration and the longing for something more is introduced. The mention of spices from China adds an alluring element to the narrative, symbolizing the desire for new experiences and the yearning for the unknown.Throughout the song, Elton John portrays the character Lucy as a companion, a partner, and an embodiment of comfort and familiarity. The lyric "Lucy walked gently, between the damp barrels, and shut out my eyes with the width of her fingers" not only paints a vivid picture but also hints at the idea that Lucy provides a sense of protection or escape from the harsh realities of life. This brings forth the theme of finding solace in the presence of a loved one, a safe haven amidst the turbulence of the world.Another intriguing lyric is "Said she'd guessed the number of bales in the back room." While this may seem like a throwaway line, it introduces the theme of intuition and supernatural abilities. It adds an element of mystery and mysticism to the song, suggesting that Lucy possesses a special power or unique insight. This notion of unexpected talents and hidden depths adds an intriguing layer to the overall theme of the song.The chorus of "Sails" captures the essence of the entire song. The lyrics "While the seagulls were screaming, Lucy was eating" juxtapose the chaos of the external world with the simplicity and tranquility found in personal connections. The image of seagulls screaming represents the noise, pressure, and distractions of everyday life, while Lucy calmly eats, symbolizing finding inner peace and contentment amidst the chaos. This recurring theme emphasizes the importance of having a serene sanctuary even in tumultuous times.The reference to hauled up colors can be seen as a metaphor for claiming one's identity or embracing individuality. The line "And together we just watched the sails" portrays a sense of unity and shared experiences, emphasizing the idea that companionship and shared moments of observation can make any journey more meaningful. This theme speaks to the power of connection and discovering joy in the simplest of moments.Overall, "Sails" is a song that explores the themes of exploration, seeking solace, divine intuition, finding peace amidst chaos, and the strength found in shared experiences. It takes listeners on a captivating voyage through symbolic narratives and vivid imagery. Elton John's lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities present a world where dreams and reality intertwine, while ultimately reminding us of the importance of love, connection, and the pursuit of inner contentment amidst life's challenges.