Body Wishes

Rod Stewart's 'Body Wishes' delves into the primal and often uncontrollable desires that reside within us all. The song opens with the imagery of nightfall, symbolizing the onset of these deep-seated urges. The 'oldest game' mentioned refers to the timeless nature of human desires, suggesting that these feelings are universal and ageless. The 'carousel' metaphor highlights the repetitive and cyclical nature of giving in to these urges, portraying it as a dance or ritual that people find hard to resist.

The lyrics emphasize the intensity of these desires, describing them as a 'fire down below' that grows increasingly difficult to control. This vivid imagery conveys the physical and emotional turmoil that accompanies such strong feelings. The line 'Somebody's sponge needs squeezin'' is a metaphor for the need for physical intimacy, further illustrating the song's focus on bodily desires. The chorus, with its repeated questioning of what to say, where to go, and who to tell, underscores the confusion and secrecy that often surround these urges.

As the song progresses, it touches on the loneliness and longing that can accompany unfulfilled desires. The 'tickin' of a lonely clock' and the 'howlin' wind' evoke a sense of isolation, while the crying baby in the distance serves as a reminder of the human need for connection. The song also acknowledges the dual nature of these desires, describing them as something that can 'tear you apart like an angry sea' but also 'keep you warm like a summer breeze.' This duality highlights the complexity of human emotions and the struggle to balance physical needs with emotional well-being.

In the final verses, Stewart reflects on the inevitability of these desires, suggesting that everyone will eventually face them. The 'poorest people's riches' line implies that these urges are a common denominator among all people, regardless of their social or economic status. The song concludes with a warning not to start what you can't finish, emphasizing the potential consequences of giving in to these powerful feelings. Overall, 'Body Wishes' is a candid exploration of human desires, capturing the tension between physical longing and emotional fulfillment.