| Roxy Music – Avalon Lyrics | 15 years ago |
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To understand the meaning of the song, one should first determine the meaning of the allusions within the lyrics. Avalon is known to most as the mythical kingdom of King Arthur, but it has also had other meanings throughout history, as a mythical island paradise located in, variously: Old England, Italy, Sicily, Atlantis, etc. It has been described by several traditions as a place where apples grow, and where everything grows abundantly without effort, without the need for ploughing, planting, or weeding. It is, therefore, a kind of Garden of Eden or paradise on earth. Bossa Nova refers to a genre of Brazilian jazz music (with various other influences). The Bossa Nova took its name from the term "bossa" which refers to something artistically new, which flows from a talented artist in a seemingly effortless way. Originally "bossa" referred to free-flowing, effortless talent; later the term was adopted to describe the bossa nova music style as "the new thing." "When you're bossa nova...." The song is describing the feeling of satisfaction of being "at the top of your game," and the satisfied, yet excited emotion experienced when everything is working right. Comparisons are made between the talent that springs effortlessly through the fingers of a talented musician or artist and the pleasant harmony of congenial friendship (at the party), and the effortless (even unspoken) communication between lovers. When everything is working right, there is understanding without having to "work at it." And when everything is working right, it is truly "Avalon." I agree that the music greatly enhances the meaning of the lyrics. The female vocals at the end of the song are particularly beautiful and awe-inspiring. They too seem effortless, like the voices of angels. |
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