Meaning of "Ballerina" by Van Morrison

The lyrics of "Ballerina" by Van Morrison convey a yearning for connection and intimacy. The speaker addresses a potential love interest, referred to as a "little angel child," and expresses a desire for them to fly into their arms, symbolizing a longing for emotional closeness and affection. The mention of the twenty-two story block introduces a sense of loneliness and isolation, implying that the love interest may be feeling trapped or disconnected in their current circumstances.

The singer then presents themselves as a potential source of comfort and support, stating that if the love interest wanted someone to get close to them, they need only ring a bell. This emphasizes the simplicity and accessibility of the speaker's offer, as they are readily available and willing to provide the desired closeness. The repetition of the phrase "step right up" further reinforces the idea of accessibility, as if the love interest only needs to make a small effort to receive the affection and connection they seek.

The use of the ballerina imagery adds layers of meaning to the lyrics. A ballerina is often associated with grace, beauty, and delicacy. In this context, it symbolizes the tenderness and vulnerability of the desired relationship. The speaker describes the love interest as stepping lightly, evoking the image of a graceful ballerina and suggesting a desire for a gentle and careful love, free from harshness and pain.

The verse where the singer mentions forgetting to slip into the love interest's slumber serves as a moment of introspection. It conveys a sense of distraction and forgetfulness, highlighting the speaker's preoccupation with their longing for the love interest. The phrase "the show must go on" spoken by an unidentified character signifies a sense of urgency and the need to keep moving forward despite any personal struggles.

Overall, "Ballerina" explores themes of love, longing, and the craving for emotional connection. It speaks to the universal desire for intimacy and the vulnerability that comes with opening oneself up to another person. The lyrics suggest that the speaker is readily available to provide the desired connection and expresses a hope that the love interest will seize the opportunity for closeness and step into the metaphorical role of a graceful ballerina.