"Strange Times in Casablanca" is a song by John Cale that explores the themes of isolation, blame, and despair. The lyrics paint a picture of a tumultuous and unsettling atmosphere in Casablanca, where people hide behind closed shades, leading to a sense of curiosity and questioning as to why things have become this way. The song speaks of blame as something that is unrelenting, resembling the sound of slamming doors. Cale emphasizes the idea of doors and companionship, comparing them to how pets sleep together in mattresses and how maggots bleed and make a mess in each other's nests. This imagery represents the destructive nature of relationships and the chaos that can arise when people are intertwined. The lyrics also touch on the concept of strange couples and the frustration that comes with it. Only those who find fulfillment in companionship pay attention to these dynamics. Cale compares this observation to receiving mail or telegrams, suggesting that it is an expected and common occurrence. There is a sense of contentment in depression that is mentioned, a feeling that delivers most of the time but does not alleviate the inner struggles. The line "But cannot help the styling of the horns in the shape of gargoyle!" implies the presence of something sinister and monstrous lurking in the background. The second part of the song reintroduces the notion of strange times in Casablanca, suggesting that the city has been forsaken before. Cale hints at the damage that will be caused once more, possibly implying a repetition of past mistakes and the consequences that accompany them. The repetition of the phrase "Broken prints savage fingers! Undertaken catamaran!" adds to the enigmatic and chaotic atmosphere of the song. These phrases do not have a clear meaning but contribute to the overall sense of unease and confusion in Casablanca. The final lines express a hope that nobody wants to smash anymore, implying a desire to avoid further destruction. It's a plea for understanding and an end to the turmoil that has plagued Casablanca. Overall, "Strange Times in Casablanca" is a poetic exploration of the destructive nature of relationships and the consequences of isolation and blame. The song paints a vivid picture of a city caught in a cycle of despair and searches for understanding and resolution.
