Meaning of Tambourine by Elton John

Elton John is a legendary musician known for his heartfelt and introspective songs. One of his lesser-known tracks, "Tambourine," may not have had the same commercial success as some of his other hit songs, but it contains an intriguing and thought-provoking set of lyrics. Through the juxtaposition of various themes, Elton John takes us on a journey exploring the power of influence, resilience, and rebirth.The overall theme of the song revolves around the transformative power of music. From the very beginning, we are transported to a euphoric state as Elton John sings, "It feels like I'm flying when I see your face." This line immediately sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the elation and joy that music can bring. It's as if the song itself becomes a vehicle for escaping reality, and the tambourine acts as a metaphor for this metamorphic journey.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of the overarching theme is, "Like the palm of my hand on a tambourine." Here, the palm of the hand symbolizes control and mastery. The tambourine, always ready to respond to a gentle touch, represents the power and influence that music grants us. By acknowledging this relationship, Elton John emphasizes the transformative nature of music and its ability to bring about change.Another captivating line that delves deeper into the theme is, "Dumb rocks filling up my poor head, did you just say what I thought you said?" Here, Elton John highlights the limitations and burdens of the mind. "Dumb rocks" symbolize the heavy thoughts or doubts that weigh us down, hindering our growth and transformation. However, the sudden realization that someone has said something profound sparks curiosity and the desire to challenge these mental barriers. This lyric suggests that music, represented by the tambourine, has the power to shatter these constraints, paving the way for personal growth.One might argue that the line, "A curveball coming that I didn't see, a flash flood washing out a dried-up creek," explores the theme of resilience. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected hardships can often blindside us. The metaphor of a curveball demonstrates the challenges we face, while the flash flood washing away a dried-up creek represents the possibility of renewal and revitalization. The tambourine, with its rhythmic and powerful sound, acts as an emblem of resilience. By embracing the transformative power of music, we can face life's curveballs and emerge stronger and more vibrant than ever before.Moving on, the bridge of the song takes us into an imaginative and fantastical realm. Elton John describes the subject of the song as a "spinning-round gypsy in the moonlight, cymbals flashing in the firelight." Here, the mood becomes ethereal and magical, evoking a sense of freedom and enchantment. These visuals suggest that the transformative power of music can transcend the boundaries of the ordinary world. The tambourine is no longer just an instrument but a catalyst for dreams and hidden desires.In the final chorus, "Roll and rattle when I'm out of steam, you got my head ringing like a tambourine," we witness the culmination of the themes explored throughout the song. The repetition of the phrase "roll and rattle" invokes a sense of movement and energy, symbolizing resilience and the ability to keep going even when we're exhausted. The tambourine's sound ringing in our head signifies its lasting impact, reminding us of the transformative power of music that continues to resonate within us.In conclusion, Elton John's song "Tambourine" takes us on a complex and imaginative journey through its lyrics. By exploring themes of influence, resilience, and rebirth, the song highlights the transformative power of music and its ability to evoke emotions and inspire change. From the palm of our hand on the tambourine to the revival of a dried-up creek, Elton John invites us to embrace the magical and transformative journey that music can take us on. So, the next time you feel down or in need of a change, pick up a tambourine and let its vibrations propel you into a world of self-discovery and renewal.