The Meaning Behind The Song: “Blinded By The Light” by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s “Blinded By The Light” was a breakthrough hit that helped to put him on the map. However, despite its commercial success, the song’s meaning remains a mystery to many listeners. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics and attempt to interpret their meaning.
The Lyrics
Before we can explore the meaning behind the song, let’s take a look at the lyrics:
“Blinded by the light,
revved up like a deuce,
another runner in the night
Blinded by the light,
madman drummers bummers,
Indians in the summer with a teenage diplomat
In the dumps with the mumps
as the adolescent pumps
his way into his hat”
The Interpretation
Many people have tried to interpret the lyrics of “Blinded By The Light”. Some have suggested that the song is about Springsteen’s struggles as a young musician trying to make a name for himself. Others have suggested that it is about the challenges faced by teenagers growing up in an increasingly fast-paced world.
However, a closer look at the lyrics suggests that the song is actually a celebration of the power of music to inspire and uplift its listeners. The repeated refrain of “blinded by the light” could be interpreted as a metaphor for the transformative power of music. Springsteen is suggesting that when we listen to music, we are transported to a different world. We are no longer constrained by the limitations of our everyday lives; instead, we are free to dream about the possibilities that lie ahead.
The strange images evoked in the lyrics – “revved up like a deuce”, “madman drummers bummers” – are perhaps a reflection of this transformative power of music. They are symbolic of the way that music can take us beyond the boundaries of the ordinary, into a realm of pure imagination.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for “Blinded By The Light” is said to have come from a book of poetry that Springsteen was reading at the time. The book, called Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J., was a collection of poems written by an obscure poet named Carl Sandburg. It is thought that one of the poems in the collection, entitled “The People, Yes”, may have inspired the song.
In the poem, Sandburg writes about the transformative power of the human spirit. He suggests that when we let go of our fears and doubts, we are capable of achieving great things. This theme of transformation resonated with Springsteen, and it is likely that it inspired him to write “Blinded By The Light”.
The Production
In addition to its unusual lyrics and powerful message, “Blinded By The Light” also stands out for its unique production. The song is notable for its use of a falsetto vocal effect, which is used to create the impression of a chorus of angels singing in the background.
The effect was achieved by recording multiple tracks of Springsteen’s voice, which were then mixed together to create the final sound. This production technique gives the song a sense of grandeur and exaltation that is perfectly suited to its celebratory message.
The Impact
“Blinded By The Light” was released in 1973 and quickly became a hit. It peaked at #1 on the Billboard charts, and helped to establish Springsteen as a major force in the music industry.
However, the song’s influence has gone far beyond its commercial success. Its message of hope and transformation has inspired countless listeners, and it continues to be a staple of classic rock radio stations around the world. In many ways, “Blinded By The Light” serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite us and to help us to see the world in a new light.
The Legacy
“Blinded By The Light” remains one of Springsteen’s most popular and beloved songs, and it continues to be a favorite of his fans. However, its legacy extends far beyond Springsteen and his music. The song’s message of hope and transformation has become a beacon for many people who are struggling to overcome the challenges of everyday life.
Its meaning may be difficult to pin down, but there can be no doubt that “Blinded By The Light” has had a profound impact on millions of people around the world. Its celebration of the power of music to inspire and uplift is a testament to the enduring legacy of Springsteen’s music, and its message of hope and transformation continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
