Flying Horses

Dispatch's song 'Flying Horses' is a poetic exploration of self-discovery, solitude, and the fleeting nature of beauty. The lyrics begin with the protagonist finding a 'beautiful stone' in the 'river of doubt,' symbolizing a moment of clarity or a precious realization amidst uncertainty. Holding the stone, the protagonist feels a profound sense of isolation, reflecting on their solitary journey. This theme of solitude is further emphasized when the protagonist encounters a girl with 'the most beautiful hair,' who leaves behind 'gorgeous footsteps in the sand.' Her ephemeral presence and the lock of hair she gives symbolize transient beauty and the fleeting connections we make in life.

The narrative then shifts to a surreal encounter with a badger and a one-eyed toad, creatures that embody wisdom and the passage of time. Their silent, knowing gaze suggests an understanding of life's deeper truths that words cannot convey. The protagonist's journey continues to a 'merry-go-round' where 'magic horses fly,' a place of childhood wonder and innocence. However, the act of stealing a ring from the flying horses introduces a sense of guilt and the realization that some things, once taken, lose their magic and become 'rusty.' This act serves as a metaphor for the loss of innocence and the consequences of trying to possess what should remain free.

The song concludes with the protagonist losing both the stone and the lock of hair, reinforcing the idea that true beauty and meaningful experiences cannot be owned or held onto. The final advice to let these symbols of beauty remain where they are, 'much happier on their own,' underscores the song's message about the impermanence of life and the importance of appreciating moments without trying to possess them. The recurring imagery of the badger and the one-eyed toad, with their 'wise old look,' serves as a reminder of the wisdom that comes with accepting life's transient nature.