Interpretations:Flying V

• Song
• Lyrics
• Interpretations
• Credits
• Guitar Tab
• Bass Tab
• Chronology

Interpretation 1

The title refers both the the formation of flying geese and to the "Flying V" electric guitar (manufactured by Gibson). The fact that lines like "the pointed end flies in the lead" gets re-used in the "guitar" verse might be a sly reference to "lead guitar".

The "bossa nova"-style piano in the song strikes me as a tribute to Vince Guaraldi ("A Charlie Brown Christmas"). Indeed, Linnell mentions his fondness for Guaraldi's music in TMBG's Amazon.com interview about this project. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 64.57.46.79 (talk) 13:01, April 20, 2005

It's very likely that the inspiration for this song is primarily the Gibson "Flying V" guitar. Since that alphabetical name is the official title of the model, a rock band brainstorming song titles associated with letters would have this on their list. Since the rock band in question is They Might Be Giants, the guitar name was matched up with a formation of geese. And voila, song.

Odd trivia: Robin Goldwasser once played cello for a speed-metal ukulele band: Uke Till You Puke. Really. This band had a "Flying V" ukulele.

—Preceding unsigned comment added by 12.167.225.149 (talk) 09:43, July 12, 2005

Interpretation 2

I especially like the last part about needing to be upside down to see the V when it's the guitar - evokes images of crowd surfing at a concert. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 137.190.208.63 (talk) 13:37, June 27, 2007

Interpretation 3

One of my favourite Giants songs period! Lovely metaphors (great for kids) and beautifully sung. (Mr Tuck)