I believe that all of the above comments are true and they need not disagree at all. I'm sure that all of the meaning suggested occurred to both Taupin and John in the creative process. That's what makes the lyrics so great.
The lyrics are at times nonsensical on a surface reading. This is a weakness in most modern popular music. It's accepted as artistic license and you must suspend ideas of logic and grammar a bit to enjoy it. I love the song for many reasons.
I believe that all of the above comments are true and they need not disagree at all. I'm sure that all of the meaning suggested occurred to both Taupin and John in the creative process. That's what makes the lyrics so great.
The lyrics are at times nonsensical on a surface reading. This is a weakness in most modern popular music. It's accepted as artistic license and you must suspend ideas of logic and grammar a bit to enjoy it. I love the song for many reasons.