Oscar Wilde Gets Out

Elton John's song "Oscar Wilde Gets Out" is a poignant exploration of the life and trials of the famous playwright and poet, Oscar Wilde. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Wilde's release from Reading Jail, where he was imprisoned for his homosexuality, a crime in Victorian England. The opening lines evoke the harsh reality of his imprisonment, with references to "rheumy eyes" and "crucifixion nails," symbolizing the physical and emotional torment he endured. The mention of "Fleet Street" and Wilde's subsequent escape to France highlights the relentless scrutiny and judgment he faced from the British press and society.

The song delves into Wilde's journey from Dublin to his eventual exile, capturing his sharp wit and literary prowess that remained undiminished despite his suffering. The lyrics reflect on the irony of Wilde's situation, where the "bitter pill" of his punishment tasted "sweeter going down," suggesting a complex interplay between his defiance and the harsh reality of his downfall. The chorus, with its reflections on beauty, love, and deception, underscores the themes of betrayal and disillusionment that permeated Wilde's life.

Elton John also touches on Wilde's time in New York, where he was celebrated for his charm and intellect before his fall from grace. The imagery of "Baccarat and champagne flutes" contrasts sharply with the later depiction of Wilde as a "sinner" branded by the lords and law. The song's closing verses evoke a sense of melancholy and nostalgia, as Wilde looks back on his time in prison and the people he encountered there. The final lines, with their references to "hardened lifers" and the "wretched poor," suggest a surprising sense of camaraderie and even fondness for those who shared his fate, highlighting the complex and multifaceted nature of Wilde's character and experiences.