The Untold Inspiration Behind Bernie Taupin’s Candle In The Wind Revealed

Original Inspiration for “Candle In The Wind” Revealed by Bernie Taupin

Intended for Montgomery Clift, Rewritten for Marilyn Monroe, Repurposed for Princess Diana

Background

Bernie Taupin, the acclaimed Oscar-winning songwriter known for his long-standing collaboration with Sir Elton John, has recently revealed a surprising revelation about the original inspiration behind the iconic song “Candle In The Wind.” Initially, Taupin had not intended for the song to be about Marilyn Monroe, but rather about the actor Montgomery Clift. However, he later decided to change the lyrics in order to pay tribute to the late Princess Diana after her tragic death in 1997.

The Original Concept

Taupin shared the original meaning behind “Candle In The Wind” during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show. He explained that the title of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s book, which symbolized a life extinguished prematurely, had captivated him. Additionally, he had been fascinated by Montgomery Clift’s untimely death while watching the movie “The Misfits.” This combination of influences led him to initially consider Clift as the subject of the song.

A Change of Direction

However, Taupin soon realized that not many people would be familiar with Montgomery Clift. Recognizing the need for a more universally recognized figure, he decided to shift his focus to Marilyn Monroe. Despite personally not caring for Monroe, Taupin acknowledged that her public image as a fragile and ephemeral figure aligned more closely with the metaphor of a “candle in the wind.” In hindsight, he expressed relief at this decision, noting that history would have unfolded quite differently if he had stuck with Clift.

A Tribute to Princess Diana

Following the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997, Taupin quickly rewrote the lyrics of “Candle In The Wind” to honor her memory. Reflecting on this process, he stated that it took him only half an hour to revise the song, indicating that the task wasn’t particularly challenging. Interestingly, Taupin admitted that he has only heard the rewritten version a couple of times – once during the funeral and once in the studio – and does not remember the lyrics by heart.

Editorial – The Transformative Power of Art

These revelations by Bernie Taupin shed light on the fascinating process of artistic creation and transformation. While the original concept of the song was intended for a specific individual, the decision to change the lyrics opened up new possibilities and allowed for wider resonance with the public. The symbolic power of Marilyn Monroe’s persona, combined with the tragic figure of Princess Diana, created an emotional connection and propelled “Candle In The Wind” to become an enduring and iconic tribute.

Moreover, Taupin’s ability to adapt and revise the song so swiftly demonstrates the innate talent and creativity of artists to capture and express profound emotions in a short span of time. They have the unique ability to translate personal experiences and observations into universally relatable themes, solidifying their place in history and touching the lives of countless individuals.

Looking back, we can appreciate how “Candle In The Wind” has become more than a song – it has become a symbol of loss, remembrance, and the fragility of life. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art and its ability to transcend boundaries, connecting us in our shared human experiences.

Advice – The Impermanence of Fame

Reflecting on the evolution of “Candle In The Wind” also invites us to contemplate the nature of fame and our collective obsession with celebrities. Montgomery Clift, a revered actor of his time, has now faded from public memory, while the legacies of Marilyn Monroe and Princess Diana endure. This serves as a poignant reminder that fame, like a candle in the wind, can be fleeting and transient.

As we continue to idolize public figures, it is essential to recognize that their lives contain complexities and vulnerabilities beyond their public personas. They are not merely objects of fascination, but individuals who experience joy, pain, and struggles like anyone else. The stories behind the songs we love often run deeper than we realize, carrying within them the echoes of real-life triumphs and tragedies.

In the end, “Candle In The Wind” stands as a testament to the power of music to capture the essence of a moment, the spirit of an individual, and the universal emotions that bind us together. Its impact on the world, whether through its original inception, its revision, or its subsequent transformation, serves as a reminder of the incredible influence art can wield and the profound connections it can forge between people.