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7.01am
Reviewers
29 August 2013
Offline
I have to ask (having just got “Flowers” off ebay – yay); this has been at the back of my mind for a while, but receiving the CD just now reminded me. Just what does:
“The swan is gliding above the ocean
A God is riding upon his back”
mean?? 
==> trcanberra and hongkonglady - Together even when not (married for those not in the know!) <==
4.25pm
1 August 2013
Offline In Indian iconography, the goddess Saraswati is often depicted riding a swan. She is the goddess of learning, wisdom, music, art, and science. More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati
Moreover, Paul seems to associate John with white birds (the peacock in that Anthology photo, Julian said John told him to think of him whenever he saw a white feather, and there’s one other example I’m forgetting). The line “fade this swan/one to black” might refer to John’s death, especially since Paul has at least twice brought John (and George) up in discussing the meaning of the song itself, as an example of why it’s important to say what you want to say to people when you have the chance.
10.20pm
Reviewers
29 August 2013
Offline ^ Thanks – some great info there. I had the idea there were some Eastern references in the song, given the video and all, but had not been able to track it down before.
==> trcanberra and hongkonglady - Together even when not (married for those not in the know!) <==
