Meaning of Saint by Elton John

The Elton John hit song "Saint" delves deep into the multifaceted concept of self-perception and societal expectations. At first listen, "Saint" may seem like a typical love song, but it unravels a rich tapestry of themes through its lyrics. Let's dive into this musically enchanting voyage of self-discovery and explore the unexpected and imaginative themes conveyed in this timeless classic.The song opens with the lines, "You don't pass your time in limbo, Or hang out with the crowd." Here, Elton John introduces the idea of not conforming to societal norms and expectations. The theme of individuality and marching to the beat of your own drum quickly emerges. The mention of sitting on a stoop represents the protagonist's hesitation, as if they took the wrong direction in life. This theme of self-doubt blends seamlessly with the overarching exploration of finding one's true identity.As we delve deeper into the lyrics, the idea of being unconventional becomes more prominent. "But you got that short cut way about you, And no one's going to stare you down" suggests that the protagonist possesses a distinctive aura and evades scrutiny. The concept of taking a shortcut symbolizes a desire to escape the mundane and ordinary, seeking a life that's extraordinary and full of adventure.The lyrics "You cook much better on a lower flame, You burn much better when the sun goes down" portray the importance of embracing individuality and not conforming to societal expectations. This lyric plays with the metaphor of cooking and burning, hinting at the idea that the protagonist thrives in their own unique rhythm and shines brightest in unconventional circumstances. It reinforces the notion that sometimes, when the world gets darker, one's inner light becomes brighter.As we move into the chorus, the line, "And heaven can wait, But you ought to be a saint" emerges as a pivotal moment in the song. It conveys the struggle between personal desires and societal pressure. The protagonist is torn between embracing their true self and trying to meet societal expectations of becoming a saint. This unexpected theme invites us to question the definition of sainthood – can one be a saint without conforming to traditional molds? The chorus becomes an ode to the protagonist's resilience and their ability to maintain their individuality while navigating the complexities of life.Another standout lyric is "You were an overnight sensation." While on the surface, this could refer to a sudden rise to fame or success, when viewed through a metaphorical lens, it represents the protagonist's journey of self-discovery. It highlights that in the process of truly embracing oneself, there may be moments of epiphany where the true essence of an individual is revealed, garnering admiration and awe from others. This theme elucidates the beauty of self-acceptance and the power that comes from fully embracing one's unique qualities.The bridge's simple phrase, "My baby's a saint," becomes an affirmation of love and acceptance. It emphasizes that the protagonist's partner is not only accepting of their unconventional ways but also celebrates and finds the sacred in their individuality. This theme of unconditional love serves as a reminder that true relationships are built on acceptance, understanding, and the celebration of the authentic self.In conclusion, Elton John's "Saint" conceals a diverse array of themes within its seemingly simple lyrics. From the exploration of self-perception and societal expectations to the celebration of individuality, this song invites listeners to reflect on their own journey of self-discovery. The unexpected and imaginative themes conveyed throughout the song add layers of depth and introspection. Ultimately, "Saint" reminds us that it is in embracing our unique qualities that we find true fulfillment, and that the path to self-discovery is a sacred journey worth embarking upon.