"Experiment Number 1" is a song by John Cale, a Welsh musician and former member of the Velvet Underground. The lyrics of the song are mysterious and open to interpretation, often characterized by abstract and poetic imagery. The song starts with the line "Turn the guitar up," which could be interpreted as a call to increase the intensity and volume of the music. The lyrics then delve into themes of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human emotions. The phrase "Well, the goodness of your heart, she's crying" suggests that someone's genuine and pure intentions are being overlooked or not appreciated. The line "Well, there's only meat and dark of a vas" is enigmatic and can be open to individual interpretation. Throughout the song, there are references to voices and their impact. The lyrics question whether these voices truly understand or know anything, particularly when it comes to the pain caused by past actions. The lyrics also touch upon the feeling of isolation and being different from others. The line "They like to feel so different when you watch them, feel like flies" suggests a sense of detachment from society and a desire to be unique or stand out. There are recurring mentions of night and day, symbolizing the contrast between darkness and brightness, or perhaps the duality of emotions. The line "She loves the day" could imply a yearning for happiness or positivity. The song ends with the line "Give me something better to hope for, they'll give me anything they can." This line could be interpreted as a plea for something more meaningful or fulfilling in life, rather than settling for empty promises. Overall, "Experiment Number 1" is a poetic and introspective song that explores themes of love, isolation, and longing. Its cryptic lyrics invite listeners to interpret the meaning in their own way, adding to the song's enigmatic charm.
