These lyrics are from the classic song "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin, and they contain rich symbolism and poetic imagery. Let's break them down line by line:
"There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold"
This line introduces a mysterious lady who believes that everything shiny and attractive is valuable. It sets the stage for a narrative that explores the pursuit of material wealth.
"And she's buying a stairway to Heaven"
The lady is attempting to achieve something significant, possibly spiritual or transcendent, by purchasing or acquiring material possessions, symbolized by the "stairway to Heaven."
"When she gets there she knows, if the stores are all closed"
The lady is confident that her pursuit will lead to her desired destination. However, this line also suggests that she may be relying too heavily on material things to attain her goal.
"With a word she can get what she came for"
It implies that she has the power to attain her desires effortlessly, perhaps through manipulation or charm.
"Ooh, ooh, and she's buying a stairway to Heaven"
This refrain reinforces the central theme of her quest for something transcendent through material means.
"There's a sign on the wall, but she wants to be sure"
The lady encounters a sign that could provide guidance or insight, but she is cautious and wants to ensure her path is correct.
"'Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings"
This line highlights the ambiguity of language and suggests that things may not always be as they seem. There can be hidden or dual interpretations.
"In a tree by the brook, there's a songbird who sings"
This introduces a natural element, a songbird, in contrast to the lady's material pursuits. The songbird represents purity and authenticity.
"Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven"
It suggests that sometimes our thoughts or intentions are misguided or misunderstood.
"Ooh, it makes me wonder"
This recurring phrase reflects the sense of curiosity and contemplation that runs throughout the song.
"There's a feeling I get when I look to the West"
The narrator experiences a strong emotion when they gaze toward the West, possibly signifying a longing or desire for something beyond their current situation.
"And my spirit is crying for leaving"
The narrator's inner self yearns for departure or change.
"In my thoughts I have seen rings of smoke through the trees"
This line introduces a mystical, dreamlike imagery, possibly hinting at a spiritual experience.
"And the voices of those who stand looking"
There are mysterious voices or witnesses observing the narrator's journey.
"And it's whispered that soon if we all call the tune"
This line suggests that if everyone comes together and follows a shared path, they may find enlightenment or reason.
"Then the piper will lead us to reason"
The piper represents a guide or leader who can help humanity find understanding and enlightenment.
"And a new day will dawn for those who stand long"
Those who persevere and remain steadfast on their path will eventually see a brighter future.
"And the forests will echo with laughter"
Nature and the world will respond positively to this change.
"If there's a bustle in your hedgerow, don't be alarmed now"
This line advises not to be alarmed by minor disturbances or challenges in life.
"It's just a spring clean for the May queen"
The "May queen" refers to a fertility symbol, and the "spring clean" suggests a renewal or purification process.
"Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run"
A choice is presented: two different paths in life. The implication is that the ultimate outcome is more important than the initial choice.
"There's still time to change the road you're on"
This line conveys the idea that it's never too late to make a different choice or change one's direction in life.
"Your head is humming, and it won't go, in case you don't know"
The narrator's mind is filled with thoughts and questions that persistently trouble them.
"The piper's calling you to join him"
The piper continues to symbolize a beckoning guide or force leading towards enlightenment or change.
"Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow? And did you know"
The lady is asked if she can hear the natural world around her and is aware of its significance.
"Your stairway lies on the whispering wind?"
The suggestion is that the path to her desired destination is not through material acquisition but is elusive and found in the intangible, like the wind's whisper.
"And as we wind on down the road"
The journey continues, and the winding road represents life's path.
"Our shadows taller than our soul"
The shadows cast by the individuals are more prominent than their true selves, indicating a loss of authenticity.
"There walks a lady we all know"
A lady, possibly the same one introduced at the beginning, is now described as a well-known figure.
"Who shines white light and wants to show"
This lady radiates purity and seeks to reveal something important.
"How everything still turns to gold"
The idea that everything can turn to something valuable or significant, even in the face of challenges or difficulties.
"And if you listen very hard"
The importance of deep listening and introspection is emphasized.
"The tune will come to you at last"
With patience and attention, understanding or enlightenment will eventually come.
"When all are one, and one is all"
Suggests a sense of unity and interconnectedness.
"To be a rock and not to roll"
Encourages stability and steadfastness, rather than aimless wandering.
"And she's buying a stairway to Heaven"
The song concludes with a repetition of the initial idea, emphasizing the lady's quest for something transcendent through material means.
Overall, "Stairway to Heaven" is a poetic and introspective song that explores themes of materialism, spirituality, choice, and the search for meaning in life. Its lyrics are open to interpretation, inviting listeners to ponder their own understanding of these profound ideas.
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