The Enigma of 'Fields of Gold': Behind the Lyrics of Sting's Hues and Melodies
Often, songs carry narratives that are subtle yet profound. 'Fields of Gold' by Sting is no exception. The song tells a tale imbued with both the beauty of romance and the complexities of human emotions. This article delves into the rich layers and deeper meanings behind the lyrics of this beloved song.
Background Information
Sting wrote 'Fields of Gold' after moving into a house near barley fields. The visual of the wind moving the barley fields made him imagine the scene as a passionate encounter between lovers. This seemingly innocent imagery forms the basis of a multifaceted narrative that explores themes of love, ambition, and the fleeting nature of life.
Analysis of the Lyrics
Introducing the Narrative
[Verse 1]
You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Upon the fields of barley
You'll forget the sun in his jealous sky
As we walk in fields of gold
The line 'You'll forget the sun in his jealous sky' is a poignant illustration of obsessive love. The 'jealous sky' symbolizes the impermanence of happiness; even the brightest moment can be overshadowed by the intensity of the relationship. This is a metaphor for the intensity of love that can make everything else seem insignificant.
The Journey of Love
[Verse 2–3]
So she took her love to gaze awhilen
Upon the fields of barley
In his arms she fell as her hair came down
Among the fields of goldWill you stay with me Will you be my love
Among the fields of barley
We'll forget the sun in his jealous sky
As we lie in fields of gold
The verses paint a picture of deep and passionate love. The woman is so engrossed in her relationship that even the sun seems secondary. This sentence speaks to the intensity and depth of the love between the two characters. They are living in the moment, forgetting about the broader context of life and death.
[Verse 4 Bridge]
See the west wind move like a lover son
Upon the fields of barley
Feel her body rise when you kiss her mouth
Among the fields of goldI never made promises light
And there have been some that I've broken
But I swear in the days still left
We'll walk in fields of gold
We'll walk in fields of gold
We'll walk in fields of gold
These verses reinforce the idea of a profound, almost mythical love. The wind moving the barley fields becomes a lover, and the physical sensations of the lovers are described vividly. The singer swears that despite past broken promises, they will walk in fields of gold, signifying a renewed commitment to their love.
The Passage of Time
[Verse 5]
Many years have passed since those summer days
Among the fields of barley
See the children run as the sun goes down
Among the fields of goldMany years have passed since those summer days
Upon the fields of barley
You can tell the sun in his jealous sky
When we walked in fields of gold
When we walked in fields of gold
When we walked in fields of gold
The final verse brings the narrative full circle. It highlights the passage of time and the enduring memory of the lovers. The children running as the sun sets symbolizes the changing seasons of life. The repeated phrase 'When we walked in fields of gold' emphasizes the enduring power of their love, even years later.
Conclusion
'Fields of Gold' is more than just a song about barley fields. It's a narrative of love, ambition, and the fleeting nature of life. The song captures the essence of an intense, almost mythical love that overshadows other aspects of life. It is a testament to the enduring power of love to leave an indelible mark on our lives.