The group takes its name from Shakespeare. In particular Hamlet's soliloquy To be, or not to be, where it refers to dying; "coil" is used in its archaic sense of "disturbance, trouble":
"What dreams may come, when we have shuffled off this mortal coil, must give us pause."
Hamlet, Act III, Scene 1, line 67.
Strength of Strings
This Mortal Coil Lyrics
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In my life the piano sings
Brings me words that are not the strength of strings.
Fiery rain and Ruby's cooling sun.
Now I see that my world has only begun.
Notes that roll on winds with swirling wings...
Brings me words that are not the strength of strings.
(repeat above)
The lyrics of the song 'Strength of Strings' by This Mortal Coil are poetic and enigmatic. The opening line "Billy, Billy, we just had a baby" suggests that this song may be about the joys and challenges of parenthood. However, the rest of the lyrics seem to be more introspective, exploring the power of music and the limitations of language. The singer describes how the piano "sings" to them, bringing them words that are more powerful than mere words. The image of "fiery rain and Ruby's cooling sun" evokes a sense of contrast and balance, and the line "now I see that my world has only begun" suggests a newfound sense of hope and possibility. The final line "notes that roll on winds with swirling wings" is a beautiful metaphor for the transformative power of music, which can lift us up and carry us away to new emotional heights.
Overall, the song seems to be about the search for meaning and connection in a world that often feels confusing and uncertain. The singer finds solace in music, which speaks to them in a way that words cannot. The imagery of fire and rain, sun and wind, suggests a sense of tumult and change, but also hints at the possibility of growth and renewal.
Line by Line Meaning
In my life the piano sings
The presence of the piano in my life provides a sense of musical harmony and vibrancy.
Brings me words that are not the strength of strings.
The piano's music is more than the sum of its individual notes, and its emotional expression transcends the physical mechanics of the instrument's strings.
Fiery rain and Ruby's cooling sun.
The fiery and intense moments in life are complemented by the calming and balancing forces that bring peace.
Now I see that my world has only begun.
Realizing that there is so much more to experience and explore in life.
Notes that roll on winds with swirling wings...
The piano is capable of creating an ethereal and transcendent soundscape, with notes that seem to float on a gentle breeze.
Brings me words that are not the strength of strings.
The piano has the ability to evoke emotions and tell stories through its music, surpassing the limitations of mere physical sound waves.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: GENE CLARK
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind