Vincent

Ellie Goulding's rendition of 'Vincent' is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh. The song, originally written by Don McLean, delves into the life and struggles of van Gogh, capturing the essence of his emotional turmoil and artistic brilliance. The opening lines, 'Starry, starry night,' immediately evoke the imagery of one of van Gogh's most famous paintings, 'The Starry Night.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the artist's world, filled with both beauty and sorrow, as seen through his eyes.

The song explores van Gogh's battle with mental illness and his quest for understanding and acceptance. Lines like 'And how you suffered for your sanity' and 'They would not listen, they did not know how' highlight the isolation and misunderstanding he faced. Despite his immense talent and the love he poured into his work, van Gogh struggled to find a place in a world that couldn't comprehend his genius. The recurring theme of a 'starry night' serves as a metaphor for both the beauty and the darkness that coexisted in his life.

Goulding's emotive delivery brings a new depth to the song, emphasizing the tragic beauty of van Gogh's story. The lyrics also touch on the artist's ultimate despair, leading to his tragic end: 'You took your life, as lovers often do.' This poignant line underscores the profound sense of loss and the idea that the world was not ready for someone as extraordinary as van Gogh. The song concludes with a somber reflection on the artist's legacy and the enduring impact of his work, suggesting that while he may never be fully understood, his art continues to speak volumes.