Ariel

Rainbow's song 'Ariel' delves into the mysterious and captivating allure of a woman named Ariel, who seems to exist in a realm between reality and fantasy. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a search for Ariel in the dead of night, where she appears as a silhouette lit by candlelight. This imagery sets a haunting and ethereal tone, suggesting that Ariel is not just a person but a symbol of an elusive dream or desire. The mention of her being a 'familiar stranger without a name' adds to her enigmatic nature, making her a figure that is both known and unknown, tangible yet out of reach.

The song continues to explore the theme of Ariel's elusiveness, comparing her to the sands of time that slip away. This metaphor highlights the fleeting nature of dreams and desires, emphasizing how Ariel, like time, cannot be held onto. The imagery of seeing her face in the mirror, dressed in black lace, adds a gothic and romantic element to the song, suggesting that Ariel is a dark angel or a muse that inspires both longing and melancholy. The sip of wine and the beginning of a game further imply that the pursuit of Ariel is intoxicating and perilous, a dance between reality and illusion.

Ultimately, 'Ariel' is a song about the pursuit of an unattainable ideal, a distant dream that captivates and eludes. The repeated plea to 'take me home' signifies a longing for completion or fulfillment that Ariel represents. However, the song leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved yearning, as Ariel remains a distant dream, a fantasy that can never be fully realized. This theme resonates with the universal human experience of chasing dreams and desires that are just out of reach, making 'Ariel' a poignant and evocative piece.