Passengers

Elton John's song 'Passengers' delves into themes of exclusion, societal barriers, and the struggle for acceptance. The repetitive chorus, 'Deny the passenger, who want to get on,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the systemic rejection faced by individuals trying to integrate into society. This denial can be interpreted as a reflection of various forms of discrimination, whether based on race, class, or other social factors. The repetition emphasizes the relentless nature of this exclusion, making it a central theme of the song.

The lyrics also paint a vivid picture of a 'black train built of bones on a copper rail,' symbolizing a journey fraught with hardship and despair. This imagery suggests that the path to acceptance is not only difficult but also laden with the remnants of those who have been denied before. The 'chain of fools' mentioned in the song could represent the cyclical nature of societal exclusion, where both the oppressors and the oppressed are trapped in a never-ending loop of hypocrisy and absence.

Furthermore, the song touches on the emotional toll of this exclusion. Phrases like 'anger in the silence' and 'salt of tears' evoke a sense of deep-seated frustration and sorrow. The 'company conductor' and 'non-commercial native' could be seen as figures of authority and marginalized individuals, respectively, highlighting the power dynamics at play. The line 'the spirit's free, but you always find passengers stand and wait in line' underscores the idea that while the human spirit yearns for freedom, societal structures often keep people waiting for their turn to be accepted. Through its poignant lyrics and evocative imagery, 'Passengers' offers a compelling commentary on the barriers to inclusion and the emotional weight of being perpetually denied entry into the societal 'train.'