Words (Between The Lines Of Age)

Neil Young's 'Words (Between The Lines Of Age)' is a contemplative piece that delves into the complexities of life, aging, and the passage of time. The song opens with a scene of two individuals by a pond, searching for something to plant in the lawn. This imagery evokes a sense of nurturing and growth, symbolizing the human desire to cultivate and create meaning in life. Meanwhile, the narrator sits by, hoping for the water to boil, a metaphor for waiting for something significant to happen or for clarity to emerge.

The chorus, 'Singing words, words between the lines of age,' suggests that the true essence of wisdom and understanding lies not in the explicit words we say but in the subtleties and experiences that come with age. The phrase 'between the lines' implies that the most profound insights are often found in the unspoken, in the spaces between our overt expressions. This reflects Young's introspective style, where he often explores deeper meanings and emotions through his music.

In the second verse, Young imagines himself as a junkman, a humble figure selling cars and washing windows. This scenario contrasts with the earlier imagery of growth and nurturing, presenting a more mundane, everyday existence. Yet, even in this humble role, there is a sense of wonder and introspection. The mention of living in castles 'a bit at a time' and the king laughing and talking in rhyme adds a surreal, almost dreamlike quality to the song. It suggests that life is a series of small moments and experiences that, when pieced together, create a larger, often whimsical narrative. Through these metaphors, Young invites listeners to find meaning and joy in the ordinary and to appreciate the wisdom that comes with age and experience.