Discover the Story Behind Jimi Hendrix’s ‘Castles Made of Sand’
fleeting: lasting for a very short time
The legendary Jimi Hendrix’s autobiographical song Castles Made of Sand is a metaphor for the impermanence of life.
In the first verse, Hendrix sings about his parent’s abusive relationship and how their love faded.
Verse two is the story of a boy killed in his sleep. The boy is Hendrix’s brother Leon, who disappeared from his life after being taken by Child Protective Services in the middle of the night.
Verse three is the story of a disabled girl who wants to end her life but then sees something that changes her mind.
Hendrix sings, “And so castles made of sand melt into the sea eventually.” Everything in life, including the good times and the bad, will one day fade away.
Watch the video below to hear Hendrix’s interpretation of the fleeting nature of life.
Sample sentences
1. The beauty of a sunset is fleeting, as the sky quickly changes from vibrant colors to darkness.
2. A feeling of happiness washed over him, but it was fleeting as he remembered the challenges he still had to face.
3. The athlete experienced a fleeting moment of triumph after winning the race, but soon started preparing for the next competition.