Elderberry Wine

Elton John's 'Elderberry Wine' is a poignant reflection on nostalgia, love, and the passage of time. The song's protagonist reminisces about a past relationship, marked by simple pleasures and the comfort of routine. The imagery of a fly in the window and a dog in the yard sets a domestic scene, evoking a sense of everyday life that has since been disrupted by the absence of a loved one. The trunk in the corner, filled with letters and bills, symbolizes the remnants of a life once shared, now reduced to memories and obligations.

The chorus reveals the emotional core of the song, where the protagonist fondly recalls the times when his partner made elderberry wine, a metaphor for the warmth and joy she brought into his life. The wine serves as a symbol of their shared happiness, a simple yet profound pleasure that helped them escape the 'depressive times.' The repetition of being 'drunk all the time, feeling fine on elderberry wine' underscores the intoxicating effect of love and companionship, suggesting that these moments were a refuge from life's hardships.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's longing becomes more evident. He questions how he can ever 'get it together without a wife in line,' highlighting his dependence on his partner for emotional stability and happiness. The seasonal imagery of a tree in the summer and a fire in the fall further emphasizes the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The communal act of passing the bottle 'from hand to hand' suggests a shared experience, a sense of belonging that he now misses. Ultimately, 'Elderberry Wine' is a bittersweet ode to lost love and the enduring impact of cherished memories.