"Janitor of Lunacy" is a song by Lou Reed, John Cale, and Nico from their collaborative album "The Velvet Underground & Nico" released in 1967. The song delves into themes of isolation, longing, and the struggle for self-identity. The lyrics portray a narrator who pleads to the "janitor of lunacy" to provide a sense of purpose and hope in their life. The term "janitor of lunacy" can be interpreted as a symbolic figure who has the power to control and manipulate the narrator's world. The song suggests that the narrator feels paralyzed and helpless in their infancy, possibly referring to their early experiences in life. They yearn for the janitor to bring hope not only to themselves but also to others. The mention of tyranny and vanity hints at the oppressive nature of society and the narrator's recognition of their own flaws. As the song progresses, the narrator asks the janitor to recognize their desperate need and tolerate their jealousy. This could imply a longing for acceptance and understanding from the janitor figure. The narrator goes on to request the janitor to identify their destiny and revive their living dream. They seek forgiveness and closure from their past, represented by the begging screams. The reference to sealing the giving of their seed and disease the breathing grief suggests a desire to let go of negative experiences and start anew. Overall, "Janitor of Lunacy" is a poetic and introspective exploration of human emotions, struggles, and the search for meaning in life. The song's cryptic lyrics leave room for individual interpretation, allowing listeners to relate their own experiences to the themes presented.
