Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: psych-rock
Song Meaning of “The Changeling” by The Doors
The song ‘The Changeling’ by The Doors speaks about transformation and how one’s personalities can dramatically change over time. It paints a vivid picture of the metamorphosis that can occur from living one’s life. The narrator expresses that he is going through an enormous shift in life and is processing how to reflect this change taking place.
The chorus states “I’m a changeling living in a world of fire. I’m the silver spaces in a land of desire.” This speaks to the narrator’s feeling of being disconnected from his environment, as if he doesn’t belong in the world. He feels like an outsider, a lone wanderer, caught between his desire to fit in and remain true to himself.
The narrator’s transformation is one filled with turmoil, as he struggles to find his place in the world. He contemplates the consequences of his transformation and is amazed how, although the circumstances of his life have changed, he still feels the same. He is often left confused and frustrated, unable to find a resolution to his inner and outer conflicts.
Guitarist Robbie Krieger provides the backdrop of a jazzy solo song, which further captures the feeling of not belonging in a place that he should feel comfortable in. Ultimately, the song implies that, despite the changes that life throws our way, we must keep pushing forward and remain true to ourselves.