John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” is a musical portrait of a man finding solace and renewal in the natural beauty of the Colorado mountains. The song, echoing themes of rebirth and self-discovery, reflects a deep appreciation for the environment and an acknowledgment of the transformative power of nature. The character’s journey in the song is symbolic of finding one’s true self and achieving a sense of peace, intertwined with the vivid imagery of the Colorado landscape.
Curious about the vivid imagery and themes in “Rocky Mountain High”? Read on to uncover the deeper meanings and the story behind John Denver’s iconic tune!
“Rocky Mountain High” Lyrics Meaning
The song starts with the character arriving in Colorado, marking a significant shift in his life. “He was born in the summer of his 27th year, coming home to a place he’d never been before,” suggests a sense of rebirth, of starting anew in unexplored territories. This notion of rebirth is emphasized as he leaves yesterday behind him, finding new keys to unopened doors, symbolizing newfound opportunities and perspectives.
The character is depicted initially as a wanderer, his life “on the road and hanging by a song,” illustrating a transient existence defined by music. The broken strings represent fleeting moments and changing circumstances, underscoring the transient nature of life. His journey to the mountains marks a transformative phase, bringing him closer to nature and away from his previous life’s ephemeral, fast-changing realities.
“The Colorado Rocky Mountain high,” serves as the chorus’s anchor, delving into the spectacular imagery of the environment, with mentions of “rainin’ fire in the sky” and the soft shadow from the starlight. These visual elements convey the profound impact of nature on the character, influencing his thoughts and emotions. The subsequent verses depict his connection with the serene landscapes, revealing his internal journey to understand the “serenity of a clear blue mountain lake.”
The lyrics also touch upon themes of environmental conservation, expressing concern over the commercialization and damage to the pristine landscapes. This concern is reflected in the lines, “While they try to tear the mountains down to bring in a couple more, More people, more scars upon the land.” Here, Denver sheds light on the pressing issues of his time, which continue to resonate in the contemporary context, emphasizing the need to preserve natural habitats and respect the environment.
The Story Behind “Rocky Mountain High”
John Denver, renowned for his love for nature and his environmental activism, wrote “Rocky Mountain High” as a tribute to his beloved Colorado, where he experienced a personal and artistic revival. Denver’s move to Colorado marked a transformative period in his life, mirroring the character’s journey in the song. The beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains deeply influenced Denver’s music, infusing his work with a sense of peace and reverence for nature.
The song, released in 1972 during a time of social and environmental consciousness, resonated with listeners and became an anthem for environmental preservation. Denver’s passion for nature and his advocacy for ecological conservation were integral to his artistry, and “Rocky Mountain High” epitomizes his commitment to these ideals.
The themes of rebirth, self-discovery, and environmentalism intertwined in the song’s narrative reflect Denver’s values and experiences, offering listeners a glimpse into his worldview and deep connection with the natural world. “Rocky Mountain High” remains a timeless piece, its messages and imagery continuing to inspire and resonate with listeners, urging them to seek solace in nature and to cherish and protect the environment.