The song "Hassan I Sahba" by Hawkwind is about the mystical and spiritual nature of the Middle East, specifically the use of hashish and the concept of a genie. The lyrics refer to the "hashishin," or those who use hashish, and Black September, a militant group that was active in the Middle East in the 1970s. The song expresses a desire for the guidance of a genie, who is associated with smoke, to lead the listener to a realm of pleasure and beauty. The lyrics also mention the petro-dollar, or the money that Middle Eastern countries earn from exporting oil. The song suggests that this wealth is connected to the spiritual and cosmic nature of the region, as it is "written" in the desert sand and stars. However, the song also acknowledges the darker side of the Middle East, with references to death and the transience of truth. Overall, "Hassan I Sahba" is a dreamy and atmospheric song that evokes the mystique and allure of the Middle East, while also acknowledging its complexities and contradictions.
