| Bob Dylan – Hurricane Lyrics | 14 years ago |
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I always considered the delivery of “We want to put his ass in stir, We want to pin this triple murder, on him, He ain't no Gentleman Jim." total and utter genius. I imagined Gentleman Jim to be a simply stereotypical well respected white fellow when somebody pointed out that Gentleman Jim referred to Jim Corbet, the ‘father of modern boxing’ who came to prominence after fighting Peter ‘Black Prince’ Jackson. My favourite part of my favourite song was even further enriched. Many people have commented on the violin which is undoubtedly awesome. I read that Bob was being driven to the studio when they passed Scarlet Rivera (the violinist) walking the street with her violin and case. Bob demanded that his limousine stopped, opened the window and asked her if she could play the thing. Apparently she didn’t have a clue who he was but was impressed with the limousine and took up his offer to join in him in the studio. I hope it’s true. |
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| Bat for Lashes – Trophy Lyrics | 14 years ago |
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I would also agree that “Trophy” is intended in a sexual context. However, rather than interpreting a rape theme I perceive the song to be a story of prostitution. To me the young protagonist is coerced by the “Wrong pair of hands” into a world where her “Trophy” is sold “for much less than it is worth”. The queen and court jesters are the Pimps and punters respectively. The protagonist encourages the “creatures of mercy” (whomever they maybe) to shoot down the people who have entombed her within this world and to ultimately set her free. This is symbolised by the return of her trophy. When I got my trophy back It took some time To polish it to gold from black And shoot the lion When I put it back inside And locked the door A trophy of mercy Is a trophy no more The polishing is an attempt at some sort of cleansing of the conscience, an attempt to return virtue perhaps, but it seems to be too late. The victim is so traumatised by her ordeal as a prostitute she vows to become celibate. I have no idea why she is shooting lions though. |
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