A Feast Of Friends

The song 'A Feast Of Friends' by The Doors is a profound and poetic exploration of life, death, and the societal constructs that bind us. The lyrics, penned by the legendary Jim Morrison, are rich with metaphor and existential contemplation. The opening lines express a weariness of doubt and a desire to live in certainty, possibly alluding to the human condition's search for meaning and truth. The 'cruel bindings' and 'servants' with power could be interpreted as a critique of societal hierarchies and the oppressive structures that govern our lives.

As the song progresses, Morrison's imagery becomes darker and more surreal. He speaks of 'royal babies' and 'rubies' replacing 'aborted strangers in the mud,' which could symbolize the loss of innocence and the commodification of life. The 'severed garden' is a haunting metaphor for death, a place where all are eventually taken, regardless of their status or wealth. Morrison's reflection on death is both chilling and comforting, suggesting that in death, we are transformed, gaining 'wings where we had shoulders,' a poetic way of saying that death is a great equalizer, freeing us from our earthly burdens.

The concluding verses reject materialism and societal expectations, with Morrison expressing a preference for a 'feast of friends' over the 'giant family.' This could be interpreted as a desire for genuine, intimate connections over superficial relationships or societal obligations. The Doors' music often delved into themes of existentialism and rebellion against conventional norms, and 'A Feast Of Friends' is a quintessential example of their philosophical and introspective style.