Meaning of As Close to Flying by Four Bitchin’ Babes

The Timeless Quest for Transcendence: Unpacking the Meaning of "As Close to Flying" by Four Bitchin’ Babes

A Journey Through the Years

"As Close to Flying" by Four Bitchin’ Babes is a poignant and introspective song that takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the years, exploring the universal human desire to transcend the mundane and experience the thrill of flight. Through vivid storytelling and imagery, the song masterfully weaves together a tapestry of moments in time, each representing a unique experience of coming close to the sensation of flight.

The Power of Imagery

The song begins with a photograph from 1936, capturing a skater striking a dancer’s pose. This image sets the stage for the overarching metaphor of flying, symbolized by the skater’s outstretched arms and steady gaze. The mention of her platinum blades emphasizes the beauty and grace of her movements, highlighting the elegance associated with flight. This image not only introduces the theme of flying but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing.

A Life of Achievement and Triumph

The verse progresses to describe the skater’s accomplishments and recognition, with medals, trophies, and ribbons on display. These accolades, combined with her handmade beaded outfits, reflect the height of her success during the time. The mention of the fashion trends of her era suggests that her pursuit of skating and the euphoria it brought her aligned with the general spirit of the time. This portrayal of achievement and triumph serves as a testament to the human desire to push boundaries and achieve greatness.

The Thrill of Flight

As the song transitions into the chorus, it becomes clear that the skater’s experience of circling the world and captivating audiences through her performances brought her closer to the sensation of flight. The repetition of the line "She came as close to flying, as one could ever know" emphasizes the thrill and exhilaration she felt while skating. This sentiment resonates with anyone who has pushed the boundaries of their capabilities and experienced a near-transcendent state.

The Tragic Flaw

The narrative then shifts to another photograph, captured in 1961. The subjects of the photo, likely another pair of skaters, are depicted mid-air, giving the impression of invincibility and a zest for life. However, their fall, unexpected and tragic, leaves the world shocked and saddened. The juxtaposition of the framed smiles on the museum wall represents the eternalization of those fleeting moments of joy and freedom in spite of their ultimate outcome. This tragic flaw serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing moments of transcendence.

A Contemporary Perspective

The bridge of the song introduces a fresh perspective, focusing on a contemporary skater pushing herself to the verge of exhaustion in pursuit of flight. The image of her as a blur conveys her determination, while the mention of her eventual flight showcases the transient nature of these remarkable experiences. The line "Oh, look, she can fly" suggests that witnessing someone else’s pursuit of flight can inspire awe and admiration in others.

The Ordinary and the Extraordinary

The song concludes with a shift in setting, from the historical photographs to the present moment in Central Park at night. As the narrator skates in the darkness, the absence of famous skaters highlights the ordinary nature of the surroundings. However, the act of gliding under the winter moon brings about a sense of contentment and joy. The desire to jump, spin, and remain in such a state reflects the longing for perpetual flight and the overall craving for fleeting moments of transcendence.

A Personal Connection

As I listened to "As Close to Flying" for the first time, I was struck by the way the song captured the essence of the human experience. I had always been fascinated by the idea of flight, and the song’s exploration of this theme resonated deeply with me. The repetition of the line "This is as close to flying as I have come to know" in the final chorus reinforced the idea that these moments of transcendence, whether on the ice rink or elsewhere, provide a profound sense of freedom and fulfillment.

Conclusion

Through "As Close to Flying," Four Bitchin’ Babes encapsulate the innate yearning for flight and the pursuit of transcendent experiences. The song resonates with those who have experienced such moments, whether on the ice rink or elsewhere, and serves as a reminder to cherish and appreciate the fleeting instances of feeling truly alive. As I continue to reflect on the song’s themes and imagery, I am reminded of the power of music to evoke emotions and connect us to our shared human experience.

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