About the song
“Lament” by Jim Morrison stands as a haunting and poetic piece that exemplifies the late artist’s deep introspection and unrelenting artistic vision. While Jim Morrison is best known as the charismatic frontman of The Doors, his solo work, particularly his poetry, reveals a different side of his creative genius. “Lament” is one such example, a piece imbued with a sense of longing, reflection, and existential musings.
Originally released posthumously in 1978 as part of the An American Prayer album, “Lament” was built around Morrison’s poetry, which had been recorded separately in 1970. The surviving members of The Doors—Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore—later composed and added music to accompany his spoken-word performances, blending Morrison’s evocative recitations with the band’s distinctive sound. This union of words and music creates an atmospheric and introspective experience, one that bridges the gap between rock and poetry.
“Lament” explores themes of love, loss, and the transient nature of life. Its title alone suggests a tone of mourning or regret, which permeates Morrison’s delivery. His deep, resonant voice carries the weight of someone deeply aware of life’s fragility, and the lyrical content reflects his fascination with mortality and the human condition. Lines such as “Death is the mother of beauty” and “I see the specter of a child / He is going to the river” evoke vivid imagery, capturing Morrison’s ability to paint existential ideas with poetic strokes.
Musically, “Lament” is understated but profoundly affecting. The instrumentation provided by the remaining members of The Doors serves as a backdrop rather than a focal point, allowing Morrison’s words to take center stage. The arrangement blends elements of jazz, blues, and ambient rock, creating a moody and reflective atmosphere that enhances the poem’s melancholic tone.
The significance of “Lament” lies not only in its content but also in its context. Released years after Morrison’s untimely death in 1971, the track offers a glimpse into the enigmatic mind of an artist who was both revered and misunderstood. It serves as a testament to his legacy as a poet and thinker, someone who used his platform to explore themes that transcended the typical boundaries of rock music.
Socially and culturally, “Lament” contributes to Morrison’s lasting image as a “rock poet,” a title that set him apart from many of his contemporaries. The track appeals to those who appreciate the depth of Morrison’s artistry beyond his role as a frontman for The Doors. It speaks to the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of his work, making it a cherished piece for fans who value the intersection of music and literature.
In retrospect, “Lament” underscores Morrison’s enduring influence as both a musician and a poet. His willingness to confront life’s impermanence and explore complex emotions remains a source of inspiration for listeners and artists alike. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of The Doors or a newcomer to Morrison’s poetry, “Lament” offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of one of rock’s most enigmatic figures—a reminder of his ability to provoke thought and stir emotion long after his voice was silenced.
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Lyrics
Lament for my cockSore and crucifiedI seek to know youAcquiring soulful wisdomYou can open walls of mysteryStrip showHow to acquire death in the morning show?TV death which the child absorbsDeath well mystery which makes me writeSlow train, the death of my cock gives lifeForgive the poor old people who gave us entryTaught us God in the child’s prayer in the nightGuitar playerAncient wise satyrSing your ode to my cockCaress it’s lamentStiffen and guide us, we frozenLost cells, the knowledge of cancerTo speak to the heartAnd give the great giftWords, power, tranceThis stable friend and the beast of his zooWild haired chicksWomen flowering in their summitMonsters of skinEach color connects to create the boatWhich rocks the raceCould any hell be more horribleThan now and real?I pressed her thigh and death smiledDeath, old friendDeath and my cock are the worldI can forgive my injuries in the name ofWisdom, luxury, romanceSentence upon sentenceWords are the healing lamentFor the death of my cock’s spiritHas no meaning in the soft fireWords got me the wound and get me wellIf you believe itAll join now and lament the death of my cockA tongue of knowledge in the feathered nightBoys get crazy in the head and sufferI sacrifice my cock on the alter of silence