The Meaning Behind The Song: Standing Still by Jewel
Standing Still is a song by American singer-songwriter Jewel, released as the first single from her fourth studio album, “This Way”, in 2001. The song stands out from her other works as it reflects on the fast-moving, competitive nature of the music industry, and Jewel’s struggle to stay grounded amidst it all. The song’s lyrics speak to many people on a personal level, as it highlights the importance of taking a step back and enjoying the present instead of constantly racing towards the future.
The Lyrics
The song starts with a contemplative piano melody, leading into Jewel’s opening lines, “Everywhere I go, the more I see the less I know.” The chorus then sets the theme, “I’m standing still, but time, time slips away.” As the song progresses, Jewel sings of the desire to slow down time and stay in the moment, “Can we survive it out there? Can we make it somehow? I guess I thought that this would never end, and suddenly it’s like we’re women and men.”
The Inspiration for Standing Still
In 2000, following a busy year of touring for her previous album, Spirit, Jewel took a much-needed break to visit a friend’s farm in the countryside. There she found the inspiration for Standing Still. She said in an interview, “I was sitting in the grass and I started daydreaming. I was thinking about how the world is changing so quickly and we’re all running so fast and we don’t take the time to just sit down and be introspective, or share moments with people we love. And that’s what the song’s about – the need to come together and share ourselves with one another.”
The Reception of the Song
Standing Still was well received by Jewel’s fans and was a commercial success. It peaked at number two on the US Billboard Adult Top 40 chart and reached the top ten in the UK, Canada, and Australia. The song’s music video, which features Jewel performing in a desert landscape and highlights the lyrics’ message, was also well-received, earning nominations for a Grammy Award and a MTV Video Music Award.
The Song’s Impact
Since the release of Standing Still, it has become a staple in Jewel’s live performance, and she often uses the song’s message to inspire her fans to take a moment and appreciate the present. Additionally, the song has been used in several TV shows, including Grey’s Anatomy and Dawson’s Creek, and has been covered by multiple artists, such as Alex Goot and The Piano Guys.
The Meaning Behind the Music Video
The music video for Standing Still features Jewel in a desert landscape, wearing a simple white dress and surrounded by elements of nature, such as a tree and a creek. The desert represents the barrenness of the world when we fail to take time to stop and appreciate the present. The simple white dress represents the purity and simplicity of life that we often forget about when constantly chasing after success. The creek and the tree represent the essence of life – that which we must water, feed and nurture, in order for it to grow and flourish.
What Message Does the Song Convey?
Standing Still is a reminder for people to take time and appreciate what they have. The song conveys the message that life moves too quickly, and we need to pause and experience the present rather than chasing after success and constantly striving for something more. The song suggests that in order to truly live, we need to connect with others and share our lives with them.
What is the Significance of the Title?
The title, Standing Still, refers to the need to pause and take a moment to reflect on life. It also refers to the idea that life is constantly moving, but we can choose to stand still and appreciate the present even as life around us changes.
What is the Symbolism Behind the Desert Landscape?
The desert landscape in the music video represents the barrenness of the world when we don’t take the time to appreciate the present. The emptiness of the desert reminds viewers that, without human connection, we are alone in the desert of life.
What Message Does the Song Convey to its Audience?
The song conveys a message of introspection and encourages the audience to take a step back and appreciate the present. The song speaks to anyone who feels overwhelmed by the pace of life and reminds them of the importance of taking time to be present with those around them.
What is Jewel’s Inspiration Behind the Song?
Jewel found inspiration for Standing Still on a friend’s farm in the countryside. She was struck by the beauty of her peaceful surroundings and felt compelled to write a song that reminded people to take a moment to appreciate life and each other.
How has the Song Impacted Jewel’s Career?
Standing Still has become one of Jewel’s most memorable songs and has had a lasting impact on her career. She often uses the song to encourage her fans to be present and re-center their perspective on what’s important in life.
What Other Inspirations Does Jewel Draw On When Creating Music?
Jewel has cited a wide range of musical influences over the years, including Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and Fleetwood Mac. She also draws on her personal experiences and struggles when creating music.
What is the Legacy of Standing Still?
Standing Still has become a timeless classic that continues to resonate with people today. It remains one of Jewel’s most popular songs and is often used to encourage people to take a moment to appreciate life. The song’s message of introspection continues to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.
How Does Standing Still Compare to Jewel’s Other Songs?
Standing Still stands out among Jewel’s many hits as a song that highlights her introspective nature and unique ability to connect with her listeners. While other songs like “You Were Meant for Me” and “Foolish Games” showcase her talent as a songwriter, Standing Still stands out for its message of reflection and personal growth.
What Does the Song Teach Us About Life?
Standing Still encourages us to take a step back and appreciate the present. The song reminds us of the importance of human connection and encourages us to be patient with ourselves and others as we navigate through the ups and downs of life. Ultimately, the song teaches us that life is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy the ride.
