I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
Elton John
The Heartfelt Melancholy in Elton John's 'I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues'
Elton John's 'I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues' is a soulful exploration of love, longing, and the bittersweet feelings that accompany separation. The song, with its poignant lyrics, delves into the emotional state of someone who is apart from their loved one, expressing both the pain of their absence and the deep love that persists despite the distance.
The lyrics suggest a temporary separation and the anticipation of a joyful reunion. The speaker encourages their partner not to view the separation as permanent, but rather as a brief interlude that will eventually lead to them being together again. The reference to 'dust out the demons inside' implies using the time apart for personal growth, suggesting that the time alone should be used constructively to deal with personal issues. The 'place in our hearts where we hide' symbolizes a shared emotional space that the couple can retreat to for comfort during their time apart.
The chorus, with its iconic line 'And I guess that's why they call it the blues,' captures the essence of the song—acknowledging the sadness and loneliness that come with missing someone, while also celebrating the love that causes these deep emotions. The juxtaposition of 'laughing like children' and 'living like lovers' with the melancholy of the blues creates a rich emotional tapestry that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexity of love. Elton John's performance, combined with the evocative lyrics, makes this song a timeless anthem for lovers separated by circumstance.