"Mountains of the Moon" is a song by the Grateful Dead, written by Jerry Garcia and lyricist Robert Hunter. The song was released in their album "Aoxomoxoa" in 1969. The lyrics depict a mystical and surreal journey through various landscapes and emotions. The song opens with references to nature and imagery, mentioning "Cold mountain water, the jade merchant's daughter" and "Mountains of the moon." These lines set the tone for the song's ethereal and dreamlike atmosphere. The mention of Electra, a reference to Greek mythology, adds to the mythical quality of the song. The chorus, "Hi ho the carrion crow, fol de rol de de riddle, Hi ho the carrion crow, bow and bend to me," is a playful and repetitive phrase that adds to the enchanting nature of the song. The carrion crow is a symbol of death and transformation, suggesting a journey through different states of being. The lyrics then mention Tom Banjo, a mysterious character who represents a sense of adventure and exploration. The line "More than laurel you may sow" suggests that Tom Banjo seeks more than just material wealth or success, indicating a deeper desire for spiritual and personal growth. The mention of a city in the rain and the wild wheat waving in the wind paints vivid images of natural and urban landscapes. The song then refers to "twenty degrees of solitude," describing a sense of isolation and introspection. The line "All the dancing kings and wives assembled in the hall, Lost is the long and loneliest town" may imply the contrast between worldly success and inner loneliness. The reference to the Fairy Sybil flying suggests a mystical presence guiding the journey. The song concludes with the repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the desire for connection and unity. The final lines, "the earth will see you on through this time, down by the water, Marsh King's daughter, did you know?" evoke a sense of surrender to the natural flow of life. Overall, "Mountains of the Moon" is a poetic and symbolic song that invites listeners to embark on a metaphorical journey, exploring themes of nature, solitude, and spiritual growth. It is open to interpretation and encourages the listener to reflect on their own path and connection with the world.
