Meaning of White Queen (as It Began) [live At The Rainbow, London / November 1974] by Queen

Queen's song "White Queen (As It Began)" takes listeners on a poignant journey filled with melancholy and longing. Written by the talented Brian May, this track from the album "Queen II" showcases the band's ability to convey emotions through their music. With poetic lyrics and a passionate melody, the song provides an exploration of love, loss, and the bittersweet moments in life.The overarching theme of "White Queen (As It Began)" revolves around unrequited love, heartache, and the yearning for something unattainable. It captures the essence of a deep and unfulfilled longing, painting a vivid picture of a White Queen who captures the protagonist's heart but remains out of reach. Within this theme, several standout lyrics further develop various imaginative and unexpected themes.One notable lyric from the song is "So sad, her eyes, smiling dark eyes." This line introduces the motif of sadness concealed within beauty. It suggests that behind those enchanting eyes lies a profound sorrow, symbolizing the complexity of human emotions. This theme explores the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that even the most radiant individuals may be carrying hidden burdens.Another line that deserves attention is "Needing - unheard, pleading - one word, so sad her eyes, she cannot see." This lyric delves into the concept of unheard pleas and unfulfilled desires. It highlights the frustration of wanting someone desperately, yet feeling invisible or insignificant in their eyes. The White Queen's blindness serves as a metaphor for being unable to see the protagonist's affection, further deepening the theme of unrequited love.A particularly evocative verse is "The mother of the willow green, I call her name, and 'neath the window have I stayed." This excerpt alludes to the longing for a lost love and a yearning for a reunion. The willow tree symbolizes sorrow and mourning, emphasizing the sense of loss and the protagonist's continued attachment to the past. It explores the concept of holding onto memories, even if they are tinged with sadness.One of the most captivating moments in the song is the bridge that begins with "White Queen, how my heart did ache." This section introduces the silent suffering endured by the protagonist. Through this lyric, a theme of unvoiced pain is established. It explores the anguish of loving someone silently without the ability to express those feelings. In a way, the silence becomes the protagonist's only solace, magnifying the intensity of their emotions.One unexpected theme that can be extracted from the lyrics is the exploration of time and its unyielding nature. Lines like "And all around the air did say, my lady soon stir this way, in sorrow known" paint an image of moments slipping away and the inevitability of change. This theme examines the fleeting nature of happiness and reminds us that even the most cherished moments eventually come to an end.In addition to themes of unrequited love, hidden sorrows, and the passage of time, "White Queen (As It Began)" also delves into the realm of self-reflection and introspection. It encourages listeners to contemplate their own experiences with love, loss, and unfulfilled desires. Through its introspective lyrics and the emotional depth it presents, the song evokes a sense of empathy, connecting the audience to their own personal journeys of longing and heartache.In conclusion, "White Queen (As It Began)" showcases Queen's ability to create a deeply emotional and introspective song. Its themes of unrequited love, hidden sorrows, the passage of time, and self-reflection intertwine to create a vivid and captivating narrative. The song prompts listeners to journey into the depths of their own emotions, reminding them of the universal experiences of longing and heartache. Through its poetic lyrics and haunting melody, "White Queen (As It Began)" stands as a timeless piece of music, forever resonating with those who have loved and lost.