Although the elegant voice of Billy Joel may seem melancholy in "Vienna" produced in 1977, the lyrics hold a deeper, timeless, meaning to life and growing up. The idea of this song originated from Billy's childhood, when him and his father had visited Vienna prior to his father leaving when Joel was a child. His song wasn't a hit until years later, this was because we as people didn't consider our face- paced world, where people are often caught up in the hustle, the song serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey rather than just focusing on the destination. Billy expresses that when he was a child, his father had gone back to Europe, and he never heard from him again. Billy proceeds to elaborate on trying to grow up too fast: "you can't be everything you want to be before your time” expressing how at such a young age, some people are pushed to mature quicker than they are supposed to, but even in your 20's or 30's, you shouldn't have to feel like you're squeezing so much into your life at first.

This song ties in the elements of childhood, as Billy uses reference to his childhood and growing up "slow down, you crazy child." Sometimes, it's easier to move on, instead of taking the time to embrace the youth we are given, and the early hood of our lives.

"Vienna" is used as a metaphor of old age, but as a reminder that growing up isn't something to dread, but something to embrace into your life. As the modern world becomes more technologically advanced, we as an economy use these privileges to our advantage, Billy urges us to "take the phone off the hook and disappear for a while" suggesting that our world doesn't have to revolve around the internet "it's alright you can afford to lose a day or two". Even though our time seems limitless, it's fortunately not. Joel's song conveys a message about slowing down, taking time for oneself, and not rushing through life.