| Gordon Lightfoot – Circle of Steel Lyrics | 2 years ago |
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I came to this page after a day of revisiting Gordon Lightfoot's music, specifically the albums "Gord's Gold" 1 and 2, in memory of his passing on May 1. "Circle of Steel" is a short, poetic narrative about a young mother who draws a losing hand in the game of life. Christmas time is the season in which this narrative takes place, inescapably evoked by the melody, the first four notes of which is lifted from "Deck The Halls." The arrangement -featuring the soft sweet instrumentation of recorder, English horn, glockenspiel, and acoustic guitar - would make for a pleasing lullaby if not juxtaposed against the cheerless lyrics depicting the bleak future of this forgotten, downtrodden woman and her child. Much like the narrative "Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," the main melody is repeated with each verse. There is no bridge. The uncomfortable incongruity is turned up several notches in the third verse as it begins with the words "Deck The Halls," to match the familiar melody. The vocals are suddenly a rich choral harmony and chimes are added to the instrumentation, reminding the listener even more of the beloved Christmas carol, but only describing music coming from the neighbors apartment where they shout at each other all day. The harmony abruptly disappears when the lyrics relate that "they" will take her child away because "they know about all her bad habits." Christmas is a time of joy for many, a magical time full of the "sights and sounds of the season." This song is for me a powerful parable reminding me that many have little to be joyful about during Christmas time or any other time of the year. It is an admonishment against self-pity and a reminder to thankful for the blessings I enjoy. Good songwriting, like good storytelling, should cause the listener to think deeply and feel strongly. Gordon Lightfoot's music never failed to do this for me. His artistry was soulful and always seemed to me tinged with melancholy. This perception was reinforced by his album covers on which he never smiled. Rest in peace, Gordon Lightfoot. Thank you for all the feelings. |
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