As a person who frequently listens to music, I often find myself diving deep into the meanings behind songs that resonate with me. One such song that holds a special place in my heart is “And It Stoned Me” by Van Morrison. I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house, and from the first few notes, I was captivated.
The lyrics of “And It Stoned Me” paint a vivid picture of a simple and joyous childhood memory. Van Morrison takes us back to a rainy day at the county fair, where he and his friend Billy find shelter against a fence. Even in the pouring rain, the boys are not discouraged. Their spirits remain high as they stand there, hands full of fishing rods and tackle on their backs.
The chorus of the song, “And it stoned me to my soul, stoned me just like Jelly Roll,” may initially seem puzzling. However, when you dig deeper, you realize that “stoned” in this context refers to being deeply moved or touched by something. It’s that feeling of being completely absorbed and overwhelmed by an experience. Van Morrison compares this sensation to the effect of being intoxicated by music, just like the joyous and carefree feeling of Jelly Roll Morton’s jazz music. The rain does not dampen their spirits; instead, it fills them with a sense of wonder and awe.
In the second verse, the rain lets up, and the sun comes out, providing relief for the boys. They have a chance encounter with a stranger in a pickup truck who offers them a ride. This moment of kindness further adds to the magical nature of the day. They are brought closer to their destination, and their excitement reaches new heights.
As the song progresses, Van Morrison introduces us to another character: the man with the sunshine in his eyes. This man lives alone, and his house is adorned with bottles and a great big gallon jar. It is here that the boys find solace and refreshment. The water becomes a significant symbol throughout the song, representing both physical and spiritual nourishment. Van Morrison’s lyrics suggest that this encounter, along with the entire rainy day adventure, had a profound impact on him at a soul level.
The beauty of “And It Stoned Me” lies in its ability to transport listeners to a specific time and place. It captures the innocence and wonder of childhood. Through his storytelling and heartfelt delivery, Van Morrison invites us to relive our own cherished memories, reminding us of the power of simple moments and the unexpected magic they can hold.
The song, released as the opening track on Van Morrison’s iconic album “Moondance” in 1970, remains a timeless piece in his extensive repertoire. Its infectious melody, coupled with the meaningful lyrics, create an undeniable connection with listeners that transcends generations.
In conclusion, “And It Stoned Me” by Van Morrison is a melodic journey that takes us back to a rainy day at the county fair. Through his vivid storytelling and heartfelt vocals, Morrison captures the essence of a carefree childhood filled with wonder and unexpected joy. It’s a song that resonates with listeners, reminding us of the power of simple moments and the profound impact they can have on our souls.
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