The Messenger
Elton John · Other Songs - Elton John
Everything is settled, immovable and calm
Nothing that has plagued our lives can ever do us harm
Then the voices railed against us, then the path was steep
Now the sounds are softer, now the road is ended
In your arms, I'll sleep
Turn away from madness, burn the inner light
Pray for me as cheerfully as I slip into the night
Death is just a visitor watching for a while
Sullen and predictable, love is versatile
Everything is peaceful, and falling into place
I no longer feel the wounds suffered in the chase
Then we were at turns divided, then by turns oppressed
Now the pain is over, now we lie together
Gratefully at rest
Put aside the notion that the end is near
Stay with me eternally, the terrors disappear
Death is just a messenger in a poor disguise
Fooling no one, lost for words, love is in your eyes
Now we know as we are known, unimagined things
Death is just the messenger, love the truth it brings
Nothing that has plagued our lives can ever do us harm
Then the voices railed against us, then the path was steep
Now the sounds are softer, now the road is ended
In your arms, I'll sleep
Turn away from madness, burn the inner light
Pray for me as cheerfully as I slip into the night
Death is just a visitor watching for a while
Sullen and predictable, love is versatile
Everything is peaceful, and falling into place
I no longer feel the wounds suffered in the chase
Then we were at turns divided, then by turns oppressed
Now the pain is over, now we lie together
Gratefully at rest
Put aside the notion that the end is near
Stay with me eternally, the terrors disappear
Death is just a messenger in a poor disguise
Fooling no one, lost for words, love is in your eyes
Now we know as we are known, unimagined things
Death is just the messenger, love the truth it brings
The Messenger
Elton John's "The Messenger" stands as a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the burden of delivering bad news. Released during the golden era of his rock and pop career, the track showcases his signature melodic sensibility paired with poignant lyrics that resonate across generations. The song captures the emotional weight of a lover who must inform a partner of their departure, blending vulnerability with the polished production characteristic of John's work. It remains a staple of his discography, often performed live to highlight his ability to convey deep sentiment through melody and arrangement.