Meaning of Flashings by Madness

The Madness song titled 'Flashings' is a beautiful composition that captures the essence of hidden emotions, fleeting moments, and the power of love. As we delve into the lyrics, we can unravel a tapestry of themes that are both unexpected and imaginative, but ultimately tied to the overarching theme of the song.At its core, 'Flashings' seems to revolve around the experience of consuming something that brings profound pleasure and leaves a lasting impact. The opening lyrics convey the sensation of sharp, fresh food that has never tasted so good. This seemingly simple act becomes a metaphor for indulging in life's moments and experiencing the full depth of emotions they evoke.One standout lyric that helps develop this theme is "Settling on my tongue it stung/ And left me drowsy in the heat." Here, the songwriter captures the dichotomy of pleasure and sensation, illustrating that even the smallest things can leave a lasting impression. The pairing of sharpness and drowsiness adds to the complexity of the experience, emphasizing the impact these moments can have on us.But what exactly is it that the songwriter and their partner were engaging in during this pleasurable moment? The lyric "What was it we were at/ Sensing something hidden still" suggests an encounter shrouded in secrecy and mystery. It hints at a deeper connection, an unspoken understanding between two people. This theme of hidden depths and the unknown is further developed throughout the song.Another significant lyric that delves into this theme is "Tumbling on the moment slow/ Falling back together yet in our heat." These words paint a picture of two individuals navigating the delicate balance of closeness and separation. It suggests that even when things feel uncertain or fragmented, there is a pull that brings them back together, a magnetism that defies explanation.The presence of birds upon the barbed wire acts as a witness to the love between the songwriter and their partner. This suggests that love is not confined to human experiences but exists in the world around us. The recognition of this love by a passing couple also highlights the universality of such connections, regardless of time and place.The lyric "That's the way it was for them/ And children running through the park/ Fall exhausted to the ground" adds an unexpected twist to the theme. It shows that love is not only reserved for adults but is also experienced by children, albeit in a different form. The image of children falling exhausted to the ground reinforces the idea that love is a force that leaves us both drained and exhilarated, regardless of age.Throughout 'Flashings,' there is a recurring motif of nature, specifically trees, speaking to the love that the songwriter and their partner have found. This unexpected theme implies that love is a universal language understood and appreciated by all things in nature. The imagery of trees, rooted deeply in the ground, represents stability and longevity, acting as a symbol of the enduring nature of love.In conclusion, 'Flashings' by Madness beautifully explores the themes of hidden depths, fleeting moments, and the transformative power of love. Through vivid imagery and unexpected twists, the song takes us on a journey of emotions and sensations. It reminds us to savor each fleeting moment and recognize the profound impact they can have on our lives. Ultimately, the lyrics of 'Flashings' remind us that love is a force that transcends boundaries and connects us with the world around us.