Calico Indians Lyrics

Lyric discussion by jenyamarch 

Cover art for Calico Indians lyrics by Rasputina

From Rasputina's website back in 2010:

Notes from Sister Kinderhook

Calico Indians

For these lyrics, I am indebted to Clara Barrus. At the time I was researching the song, I thought I was studying the writings of an unknown historical-society-lady; that her words were from some obscure mimeographed pamphlet. But in actuality, she's a fascinating woman. She wrote this book: Nursing the Insane.

Clara Barrus was some kind of partner (hm) to John Burroughs, who was a naturalist akin to Thoreau, and a buddy of Walt Whitman. Clara's spirited account of the Anti-Rent wars is actually John Burroughs experience and memories.

In the song, I give much space to description of the rebels' costume. It was just so drag and weird — I love it.

Read up yourself on this obscure rebellion. It was a real serf situation. Ay, by Rasputina Field-Trip™, I've visited the manorial home of the biggest Patroon.