The Secret Language Of Birds, Pt2

Ian Anderson, the frontman of the legendary rock band Jethro Tull, brings his poetic prowess to the forefront in 'The Secret Language Of Birds, Pt2.' This song delves into the complexities of communication, using the metaphor of birds to explore the nuances and subtleties often lost in human interaction. Anderson's lyrics suggest a yearning for a deeper, more authentic form of expression, free from the constraints of clichés and empty promises.

The song opens with a rejection of 'buzz words' and 'fuzzy fudge words,' indicating a disdain for superficial or insincere communication. Anderson urges the listener to 'freeze those goalposts' and avoid taking on the 'Admiral,' a metaphor for rigid, authoritative figures who stifle genuine dialogue. Instead, he proposes speaking the 'secret language of birds,' a symbolic call for a more intuitive and heartfelt way of connecting with others. The reference to the Nightingale in Berkeley Square adds a layer of romanticism and nostalgia, suggesting that true communication requires a shift in perspective, much like changing the key in a piece of music.

Throughout the song, Anderson questions whether we have 'problems of communication' and highlights the difficulty of explaining certain feelings or concepts. The imagery of 'finger tracing on misty window' and 'salacious semaphore' evokes a sense of longing and unspoken messages, emphasizing the importance of non-verbal cues in understanding one another. The 'big dawn chorus' represents a moment of clarity and unity, where all voices come together in harmony, free from the constraints of conventional language. By advocating for the 'secret language of birds,' Anderson invites us to embrace a more profound and genuine form of communication, one that transcends words and resonates on a deeper emotional level.