Names Of The Kingdom

The Doors' song 'Names Of The Kingdom' is a poetic exploration of a journey through various landscapes and states of mind. The lyrics evoke a sense of movement and transition, as the narrator describes coming down rivers, highways, forests, and falls. These natural elements symbolize the passage through different phases of life and consciousness. The mention of specific places like Carson, Springfield, and Phoenix adds a layer of geographical and perhaps personal significance, suggesting that these locations hold particular meaning or memories for the narrator.

The repeated line 'I can tell you the names of the Kingdom' suggests a deeper knowledge or understanding that the narrator possesses. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for enlightenment or spiritual insight. The 'Kingdom' here may represent a state of higher awareness or a mystical realm that the narrator has accessed through their journey. The ability to 'tell you the things that you know' implies a shared, universal knowledge that the narrator is ready to reveal, perhaps hinting at the interconnectedness of all human experiences.

The imagery of 'listening for a fistful of silence' and 'climbing valleys into the shade' adds a layer of introspection and contemplation. These lines suggest a search for inner peace and understanding, a quest that requires both silence and shadow. The 'fistful of silence' could symbolize the elusive nature of true wisdom, while 'climbing valleys into the shade' might represent the challenges and depths one must navigate to reach enlightenment. Overall, 'Names Of The Kingdom' is a rich, evocative piece that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the deeper meanings behind their experiences.