Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “Christian Island – Live” by Gordon Lightfoot
The song ‘Christian Island’ by Gordon Lightfoot is reflective of the troubles and struggles of life. It speaks of a dreamer who goes to a magical place called “Christian Island” in an attempt to escape the harshness of everyday life. On this island, this dreamer finds true solace and safety away from the toils of the world. There is an expectation of high tranquility and serenity here, which is seen in the lines “peaceful waters, silent night, where the abbey shines so bright”. The abbey, referred to here, is a place of religious worship that symbolizes the faith that this dreamer holds dear.
The chorus of the song provides a striking contrast to the verses in both lyrically and musically. While the verses reflect on the peace and serenity of Christian Island, the chorus reflects on the hardships and trials that this dreamer and others face in their daily lives. Through the chorus, the dreamer acknowledges the struggles of the world and, even though they are on this distant Christian Island, they still send out their prayers and thoughts for the rest of the world.
The song ends with a plea for hope and understanding, as it’s believed that this lonely dreamer will eventually find a place for themself in this world.