Meaning of Blinded by Rainbows by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones' song "Blinded by Rainbows" takes listeners on a thought-provoking journey through a myriad of themes that are both unexpected and imaginative. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the concept of being blinded by illusions and the harsh realities that lie beneath them. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song explores various ideas related to the darkness hidden behind seemingly endless rainbows.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Did you ever feel the pain that he felt upon the cross?" This line, with its direct reference to Jesus Christ and the crucifixion, introduces a theme of suffering and sacrifice. It explores the idea that behind the façade of rainbows and paradise, there can be immense pain and agony, just as Jesus experienced. It reminds us that pain and suffering are often intertwined with beauty, presenting us with a deeper insight into the paradoxical nature of life.Moving forward, the lyric "Did you ever touch the night, did you ever count the cost?" delves into the theme of introspection and self-reflection. It urges the listener to ponder whether they have ever truly embraced the darkness or considered the consequences of their actions. This lyric suggests that hiding from the shadows may be easier, but doing so prevents one from fully experiencing life and understanding its true nature.Another impactful line, "Did you ever feel the blast as the Semtex bomb goes off?" speaks to the realities of war and violence. While rainbows symbolize hope and peace, the harshness of reality is often filled with destruction and chaos. This lyric sheds light on the dark side of humanity and forces listeners to confront the horrors that exist beneath the surface. It highlights the theme of disillusionment, as our idealistic notions of rainbows can blind us to the grim realities of the world.The verse "Do you ever fear the night, could it be the war is lost? Do you fear the final hour, do you kneel before the cross?" explores the theme of existential dread and the fear of impending doom. It questions whether individuals truly face their fears and confront the possibility of loss. By referencing the cross once again, the verse also alludes to the struggle between faith and doubt, asking listeners to contemplate their beliefs and actions when faced with the darkness of the night.Throughout the song, the chorus reinforces the main theme by repeating the phrase "blinded by rainbows." This repetition emphasizes the idea of being deceived by illusions, whether they be societal constructs or personal delusions. The chorus suggests that many people live in a state of blindness, unable or unwilling to see the truth that lies beyond the surface.In the end, "Blinded by Rainbows" serves as a powerful reminder that life is often more complex and nuanced than it appears. It prompts us to question the illusions and constructs we hold dear and encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of the world around us. By exploring themes of suffering, introspection, disillusionment, war, and existential dread, the song ultimately challenges us to open our eyes and see beyond the rainbows that blind us.