Burning Of The Midnight Lamp

Jimi Hendrix's 'Burning Of The Midnight Lamp' is a poignant exploration of loneliness and longing. The song opens with a sense of desolation, as the morning is described as 'dead' and the day as unproductive. The 'velvet moon' serves as the only guide in this dark, lonely landscape. Hendrix's lyrics convey a deep sense of isolation, with the repeated burning of the midnight lamp symbolizing his solitary vigil. This imagery suggests a man grappling with his inner demons, feeling the weight of his loneliness to the point of contemplating self-destruction.

The second verse introduces a more personal element, with a 'smiling portrait' of a loved one hanging on a 'frowning wall.' This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between past happiness and present sorrow. The 'ever falling dust' and the 'forgotten earring' are metaphors for memories that have faded and lost their significance, yet still haunt the narrator. The coldness of the earring facing the door symbolizes the emotional distance and the finality of the separation. Despite these painful reminders, the narrator continues to burn the midnight lamp, underscoring his enduring loneliness.

In the final verse, Hendrix reflects on the repetitive nature of his solitude. The 'same old fireplace' and the 'same old explosion' in his mind signify the cyclical nature of his thoughts and emotions. The mention of a 'circus in the wishing well' and someone to 'buy and sell' for him suggests a longing for change and connection, yet he remains trapped in his isolation. The repeated plea, 'Darling, can you hear me calling you?' emphasizes his desperate need for companionship. Ultimately, 'Burning Of The Midnight Lamp' is a powerful expression of loneliness, yearning, and the human desire for connection.