Meaning of 'Albatross'

by Judy Collins

Interpretation

The song lyrics 'Albatross' by Judy Collins are about a woman standing at a gate and observing nature and the ocean. She watches seagulls flying over the waves and the silver edges of the sky. It seems like she is fascinated by the beauty of nature.

There are also many people who come to her and bring memories. They cover her with a veil of admiration, as if she were a bride. Young men bring her violet flowers and ask her if she has cried. They try to figure out why she is like that and what she is thinking.

The lyrics also mention clothing and accessories like lace on the collars of the ladies' blouses and flowers from a Spanish friend of the family. These details give a certain elegance and beauty to the woman's life.

It seems like the woman is trapped in her own life. She feels locked behind the windows of her eyes. In the night, she hears the iron wheels rolling through the rain and the church bells announcing pain. She is alone, without company.

The lyrics also make it clear that the woman has to negotiate her own life to make sure she is truly alive. She gives people around her colors, bells, wind, and dreams. It's as if she tries to give joy and beauty to others while she herself seeks love and signs in the waves.

There is also a desire for a prince who rides along the sea and the mountains and scatters sand and foam in amethyst fountains. This prince may symbolize the hope for love and fulfillment.

The lyrics end with the image of the woman standing at the gate, her long hair blowing in the wind. She has to trade her life to make sure she is truly alive. And yet, she remains alone.

Overall, the song lyrics 'Albatross' by Judy Collins express the feeling of loneliness, the search for love, and the longing for fulfillment. They describe the life of a woman who feels trapped in her own world but still tries to bring joy to others.