The song "The Crossing (Oohh The Action...)" by Grace Jones is a conversation between Grace Jones and Paul Morley, a British journalist and music critic. The lyrics capture their exchange about Grace Jones' aspirations and experiences in life. The conversation begins with Paul Morley asking Grace what she wanted to be when she was seventeen, to which she responds, "Not bored." This indicates her desire for excitement and adventure in life. Paul then asks her what she did to escape boredom, and Grace replies, "I floated on a cloud." This metaphorical response suggests that she found solace and escapism in her imagination. When Paul mentions that everyone floats on a cloud, Grace disagrees, saying, "Not all of us." This implies that she sees herself as unique or different from others in her ability to dream and escape reality. Paul further asks about what happened next, to which Grace responds, "The lucky ones." This suggests that she believes she was fortunate to maintain a sense of wonder and imagination, as if she never came down from that cloud. She describes the experience as wonderful. The lyrics then transition to the phrase "Oh, the action," which is repeated throughout the song. This line can be interpreted as Grace Jones expressing her love for excitement, adventure, and living life to the fullest. Interspersed throughout the song are lines spoken by Jean-Paul Goude, a French graphic designer and Grace Jones' former creative partner. He describes her deep conviction and her ability to let herself be carried by her instincts without over-analyzing. Towards the end, Grace answers Paul's question about what makes her blush, saying, "Being adored and worshipped." This reveals her vulnerability and the power that admiration and love hold over her. The song concludes with Jean-Paul Goude mentioning how he first met Grace at the Russian Tea Room in New York in 1978. He refers to her as the disco queen of that period, highlighting her status as a cultural icon and influential figure in the music and fashion scene. Overall, "The Crossing (Oohh The Action...)" celebrates Grace Jones' unique perspective on life and her ability to maintain a sense of wonder and adventure. It also touches upon her vulnerability and the impact that fame and adoration have on her.
