Meaning of "Wheel Inside The Wheel" by Jimmy Buffett

"Wheel Inside The Wheel" is a song that blends elements of New Orleans culture, spirituality, and celebration. The imagery of the parade of souls marching across the sky speaks to the eternal and cyclical nature of life. By referencing iconic figures and traditions from New Orleans, such as Louis Armstrong and Mardi Gras Indians, the song highlights the richness of this cultural tapestry. The repeated chorus emphasizing that souls are not born or die but continue on in the wheel inside the wheel suggests a belief in reincarnation or the eternal nature of the soul. The idea of riding the flaming circle and winding the golden reel conveys a sense of moving through life's cycles and finding meaning in the interconnectedness of all things. Overall, the lyrics of the song celebrate life, death, and the eternal nature of the soul within the vibrant and colorful backdrop of New Orleans.