The Meaning Behind The Song: When I See an Elephant Fly by Disney

The Significance of When I See an Elephant Fly: A Disney Classic

When I See an Elephant Fly is a popular song from the 1941 Disney classic movie, Dumbo. The song is performed by a group of crows who befriend the titular character. While the song has faced criticism and controversy over possible racism, it is also recognized for its catchy tune and relevant message. Let’s take a closer look at the meaning behind When I See an Elephant Fly.

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The Story Behind When I See an Elephant Fly

When I See an Elephant Fly was written by two Caucasian writers, Don Raye and Gene de Paul. It was originally intended for the crows to be voiced by black actors, but the studio later decided for the characters to be voiced by white actors performing in black dialect. This decision has been criticized as perpetuating racial stereotypes.

Despite the controversy surrounding the song, the lyrics themselves can be seen as a commentary on social issues. The song plays on how unbelievable it would be to see an elephant fly, a metaphor for how some people are discriminated against and held back because of their race or circumstances. The crows are presented as outsiders who are initially hesitant to befriend Dumbo because of his physical differences. However, as they get to know him, they see his potential and help him overcome obstacles.

The Legacy of When I See an Elephant Fly

Despite the controversy, When I See an Elephant Fly remains a beloved classic and is often cited as one of the most memorable parts of Dumbo. The song has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous adaptations of the movie. More importantly, the message of acceptance and seeing past differences continues to resonate with audiences today.

FAQs About When I See an Elephant Fly

1. What inspired the writers to create When I See an Elephant Fly?
Don Raye and Gene de Paul were inspired by a popular phrase during their time that denoted disbelief. They used this phrase as a metaphor for the discrimination faced by the characters in the movie.

2. What impact did the controversy have on the song?
The controversy surrounding the song centers around allegations of racism due to the use of black dialect. This has led some to criticize the song as problematic and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

3. What is the message behind When I See an Elephant Fly?
The song plays on the idea of how some people are held back because of their race or other circumstances. It is a message of acceptance and seeing past differences.

4. Who performs When I See an Elephant Fly in Dumbo?
The song is performed by a group of crows who befriend Dumbo.

5. What is the significance of the crows in the movie?
The crows are often cited as racially problematic due to their use of black dialect. However, they are also presented as outsiders who help Dumbo overcome obstacles and are eventually embraced by the other characters.

6. Has When I See an Elephant Fly ever been covered by other artists?
Yes, the song has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous adaptations of Dumbo.

7. What is the legacy of When I See an Elephant Fly?
Despite the controversy, the song remains a beloved classic and its message of acceptance continues to resonate with audiences today.

8. What is the history of Dumbo?
Dumbo is a 1941 animated movie from Walt Disney Productions. It tells the story of a young elephant with unusually large ears who learns to fly.

9. What are other notable songs from Dumbo?
Other notable songs from Dumbo include Baby Mine and Pink Elephants on Parade.

10. What is the significance of When I See an Elephant Fly in the context of the movie?
When I See an Elephant Fly is a pivotal moment in the movie as it is when the crows befriend Dumbo and help him overcome his obstacles.

11. What is the theme of Dumbo?
The themes of Dumbo include acceptance, perseverance, and embracing one’s differences.

12. What is the overall message of When I See an Elephant Fly?
The message is that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and others believe in you. It is a message of acceptance and hope.

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