Hotel California Poem Analysis

As a child I recall hearing this song too many time too count. I never thought of this more than just another song. As I've grown up I've realized that it is much more than just that. The song “Hotel California” was written by the eagles in 1976. This song is rich with symbolism and abstract ideas. The song tells a story of a lonely traveler, after a long journey he or she happens upon the Hotel California. They are warmly welcomed and the traveler tells the story as it happens in real time. I believe this song tells a tale of seeking fame, fortune and all the other things are associated with those things. Eventually becoming disenchanted and wanting to return to the normalcy of private life. This song speaks directly to the dangers of stardom …show more content…
The music for “Hotel California” is written in the basic seven cord arrangement allowing for both electric and acoustic guitars to form solo riffs. The guitars play together from the beginning forming almost a reggae style beat. The instrumentals behind “Hotel California” allows the listener to visualize and become more aware of the events as the story unfolds. The beginning of “Hotel California” has only two guitars playing before the lyrics or other instruments begin. This establishes the mood for the song by giving mellow acoustic guitar riffs with an electric guitar accompaniment. This part of the song could refer to the very beginning on the Eagles trip to California. About one minute into the song, the bassist joins in signaling the start of the lyrics. This is very symbolic of the travelers start of the journey. Long drawn out guitar solos appear throughout the song to show the passage of time and events. Two minutes prior to the sound being over the most famous musical piece is performed by the electric guitar. This guitar solo helps to emphasize and show us the events of the song. With a powerful start and many chord changes the music itself is very symbolic of the many up and downs faced throughout the