Beautiful Noise

Neil Diamond's 'Beautiful Noise' is a celebration of the everyday sounds that make up the fabric of urban life. The song opens with an appreciation for the 'beautiful noise' coming from the street, highlighting the rhythmic and melodic qualities of the city's hustle and bustle. Diamond's lyrics suggest that these sounds, often overlooked, have their own unique beauty and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of life. The 'clickety-clack of a train on a track' and the 'song of the kids' playing in the park are just a few examples of the diverse sounds that create this urban symphony.

The song goes on to describe how these noises are not just random sounds but are imbued with emotion and meaning. The 'song of the cars on their furious flights' even carries a sense of romance, as they 'dance to the beat of the lights.' This personification of inanimate objects and everyday occurrences adds a layer of depth to the song, suggesting that there is beauty and poetry in the mundane. Diamond's use of metaphors like 'a hand in a glove' to describe how these sounds fit perfectly into his life further emphasizes the personal connection he feels to this urban symphony.

'Beautiful Noise' also touches on the dual nature of these sounds, describing them as 'made of joy and of strife.' This line acknowledges that life in the city is a mix of positive and negative experiences, but together they create a 'symphony played by a passing parade.' The song ultimately portrays the noise of the city as the 'music of life,' a constant, ever-changing soundtrack that reflects the complexity and richness of human existence. By giving a tune to these everyday sounds, Neil Diamond elevates them, encouraging listeners to find beauty in the ordinary and to appreciate the symphony that surrounds them every day.