Meaning of Shine by Elton John

The overall theme of Elton John's song "Shine" is the power of self-expression and embracing one's true self. The song tells the story of a group of girls in a dance class led by Mrs. Wilkinson. Despite their individual struggles and imperfections, the girls are encouraged to shine through their love for dancing. Through the song's lyrics, various themes emerge, each contributing to the message of self-acceptance and finding joy in one's unique abilities.One standout lyric from the song is "Even if you can't dance at all, all you really have to do is shine." This lyric explores the notion that dancing, or any form of self-expression, should not be limited to those who are technically skilled or naturally talented. Instead, it suggests that anyone can shine simply by being their authentic selves. It promotes the idea that true beauty and sparkle come from within, rather than from adhering to societal standards.Another notable lyric is "It doesn't matter if you're special needs, maimed or lame, or born in Leeds. They love to see a heart that bleeds." This lyric highlights the importance of embracing individuality and sharing one's vulnerabilities. It challenges the notion that only perfect, unblemished individuals are worthy of attention and recognition. By acknowledging that it is the heart and passion behind a performance that truly captivates an audience, the song emphasizes the power of authenticity and how it can inspire others.The lyric "Give 'em the old razzle dazzle, turn on the old pizzazz" encapsulates the theme of embracing one's uniqueness and using it to captivate others. It underscores the idea that being different or unconventional should not be a hindrance but rather an advantage in grabbing people's attention. It encourages individuals to embrace their quirks and exude confidence, knowing that their distinctiveness can shine brightly.The song also explores the theme of overcoming adversity through self-expression. Lyrics such as "It doesn't matter if your life's a mess, the whole process will coalesce" convey the idea that through the act of shining, one can transcend their circumstances and find hope. It suggests that by expressing oneself authentically, one can find solace and strength to confront and overcome life's challenges.Furthermore, "Shine" celebrates the transformative power of art and creativity in our lives. The lyric "Our lives are lonely and sad, but in here they sparkle" portrays the dance class as a refuge from the outside world where the girls can truly be themselves and let their inner light shine. It emphasizes the ability of artistic expression to heal, inspire, and uplift individuals, providing an escape from the ordinary and mundane.In summary, Elton John's song "Shine" revolves around the theme of self-expression and embracing one's true self. Through its various lyrics, the song explores the ideas of authenticity, overcoming adversity, celebrating uniqueness, and the transformative power of art. It encourages individuals to shine by embracing their individuality, remaining true to themselves, and finding joy in their passions. Ultimately, "Shine" serves as a reminder that anyone can radiate brilliance and make a lasting impact simply by being their authentic selves.