Thinking Round Corners

Jethro Tull's 'Thinking Round Corners' is a lyrical exploration of breaking free from conventional thought patterns and embracing a more fluid, imaginative approach to life. The song opens with a call to abandon linear thinking, urging listeners to avoid the pitfalls of overthinking and instead, to embrace a more circular, creative mindset. This theme is reinforced through vivid imagery and metaphors, such as 'jump to the left, jump to the right,' which suggest a dance-like movement through life's complexities.

The lyrics delve into various surreal and dreamlike scenarios, from 'wet corridors' and 'diving down drains' to 'pretty girl with neon eyes' and 'yellow cow, big-eyed moon.' These images evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging listeners to draw strength from unexpected sources and to find beauty in the unconventional. The repeated refrain, 'Think round corners,' serves as a mantra for this mindset, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating life's challenges.

The song also touches on themes of societal norms and expectations, as seen in lines like 'paper cowboys, tin drums banging where the white man comes' and 'landowners with whips and chains but soft in bed amidst warm rains.' These lines critique the rigidity and hypocrisy of societal structures, suggesting that true freedom and fulfillment come from thinking outside the box and challenging the status quo. By blending whimsical imagery with deeper social commentary, Jethro Tull crafts a thought-provoking and imaginative piece that encourages listeners to embrace a more open-minded and creative approach to life.