About the song
“Hour for Magic” by Jim Morrison, released posthumously in 1999, is a haunting and introspective piece that reflects Morrison’s enigmatic vision of life, death, and the mystical forces that shape human existence. Originally recorded in 1969 as part of the legendary Doors sessions, the song features Morrison’s signature baritone voice, a blend of rock, poetry, and spiritual musings that fans had come to expect from him. It was included in the album An American Prayer, which combined tracks of Morrison’s spoken poetry with music recorded by The Doors shortly before his death.
In the song, Morrison explores themes of existential reflection and the search for meaning. His delivery is calm yet charged, almost hypnotic, as he speaks of a “magical hour,” a fleeting moment where one could reach enlightenment or transcendence. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing, both for personal understanding and the deeper truths of the universe. The spoken word, intertwined with the lush instrumental backdrop of The Doors, creates a sense of urgency and mystery, drawing the listener into a meditative space.
The meaning of the song is multifaceted, reflecting Morrison’s interests in mysticism, the occult, and the human psyche. At its core, “Hour for Magic” is about self-discovery, a journey through the unknown that both thrills and terrifies. It speaks to the fragile nature of time, and how crucial moments—such as this “hour”—can determine the course of one’s life. It is also an exploration of how we connect with the universe and the magic that can arise when we dare to look beyond the ordinary.
Socially, the song is a reflection of the counterculture movement of the late 1960s, a time of radical change, artistic experimentation, and social upheaval. Morrison’s poetry and music often challenged conventional ideas, encouraging listeners to question the status quo and seek alternative paths to personal fulfillment. In this sense, “Hour for Magic” continues to resonate as a symbol of freedom and defiance against societal norms.
While the song was released after Morrison’s death, it embodies his legacy as an artist unafraid to explore the deep, often uncomfortable, aspects of life and spirituality. As part of The Doors’ catalog, it contributes to the band’s ongoing influence on music, philosophy, and popular culture, keeping Jim Morrison’s vision alive long after his physical departure.
In summary, “Hour for Magic” is a profound meditation on life, death, and everything in between. Its mystical overtones, paired with Jim Morrison’s haunting voice, make it a timeless piece that continues to evoke both contemplation and inspiration in those who encounter it.
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Lyrics
Resident mockery give us an hour for magicWe of the purple glove, we of the starling flight and velvet hourWe of Arabic pleasure’s breedWe of sun-dome and the nightGive us a creed to believe, a night of lustGive us trust in the nightGive of color hundred hues, a rich Mandala for me and youAnd for your silky pillowed houseA head, wisdom and a bedTroubled decree resilient mockery has claimed theeWe used to believe in the good old daysWe still receive in little waysThe things of kindness and unsporting browForget and allow