Live Like Horses

Elton John's 'Live Like Horses' is a poignant exploration of the human desire for freedom and the struggle against the constraints that bind us. The song opens with vivid imagery of the physical body, described as 'flesh and blood wrapped around bones,' moving like a river into the unknown. This metaphor sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and liberation. The protagonist's encounter with a 'renegade who lived and died the blues' suggests a meeting with someone who embodies a free spirit, yet whose promise of freedom remains elusive and unclear, leaving a lasting impact on the protagonist's psyche.

The chorus, 'Someday, we'll live like horses,' serves as a powerful metaphor for breaking free from societal constraints and personal limitations. Horses, often symbolizing freedom and wildness, represent an ideal state of being where one can live without the 'old, iron fences' that restrict movement and expression. The song suggests that there are multiple ways to 'regain your senses,' implying that liberation is a deeply personal journey that can take many forms. The imagery of breaking out of stalls further emphasizes the need to escape confinement and embrace a life of freedom and authenticity.

The verses delve into the struggles and heartbreaks that keep individuals 'short of breath' and 'trapped above bloodless streets.' These lines evoke a sense of suffocation and entrapment, both physically and emotionally. The protagonist's decision to 'jump ship' in the 'flat, dry desert' symbolizes a bold move towards freedom, away from the 'belly of the beast.' This act of defiance and the subsequent promise of living like horses encapsulate the song's core message: the relentless pursuit of freedom and the courage to break free from the chains that bind us.