1983 (A Merman I Should Turn To Be)

Jimi Hendrix's song '1983 (A Merman I Should Turn To Be)' is a vivid and imaginative narrative that explores themes of escape, rebirth, and the search for peace in a world ravaged by war. The song begins with the protagonist awakening to the harsh reality of a war-torn world. Despite the chaos, he and his love, Catherina, decide to embark on a final journey to the sea, not to die, but to be reborn. This decision symbolizes a desire to leave behind the destruction and find a new beginning in a place untouched by human conflict.

The lyrics paint a bleak picture of the Earth, describing it as a 'fighting nest' where 'giant pencil and lipstick tube shaped things' rain down, causing pain and destruction. This imagery likely refers to missiles and bombs, highlighting the senseless violence and devastation of war. As the couple reaches the sea, they are met with skepticism and disbelief from others who claim that living underwater is impossible and against the will of God. Despite these doubts, the couple remains determined to find solace beneath the waves.

In the final verses, the couple makes love on the sand, bidding farewell to the land and the 'killing noise' of the world above. They descend into the ocean, greeted by starfish and mermaids, and are welcomed into an underwater utopia, Atlantis. This underwater world represents a utopian escape from the horrors of the surface world, a place where they can find peace and happiness. Hendrix's use of rich, surreal imagery and metaphors creates a powerful narrative of escape and transformation, reflecting a deep yearning for a world free from conflict and suffering.