About the song
Background
“Black Polished Chrome” was released in 1978 on The Doors’ posthumous album, An American Prayer. The album is a collection of spoken word pieces recorded by Jim Morrison in Los Angeles in 1970, shortly before his death. The recordings were set to music by the remaining members of The Doors eight years later.
Themes
“Black Polished Chrome” is a cryptic and evocative piece that touches on several themes:
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The Power of Music: The opening line, “The music was new black polished chrome and came over the summer like liquid night,” paints a vivid picture of music as a powerful force that can transform and transport the listener.
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Media and Celebrity: The lyrics mention DJs taking pills to stay awake and a TV showman attending a party, suggesting a commentary on the relentless nature of the media and the fleeting fame of celebrity.
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Disillusionment and Rebellion: The overall tone of the song is one of disillusionment with the superficiality of modern life. The line “We saw the Chooks had written F-U-C-K on his windshield” can be seen as a symbol of youthful rebellion against societal norms.
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Mystery and Ambiguity: Much of the song’s meaning remains open to interpretation. The lyrics are full of surreal imagery and non-linear storytelling, inviting the listener to create their own narrative.
Black Polished Chrome as a Reflection of Jim Morrison
The themes explored in “Black Polished Chrome” can be seen as a reflection of Jim Morrison’s own life and struggles. He was a complex and charismatic figure who was both fascinated and repelled by the world of fame. His lyrics often dealt with themes of rebellion, alienation, and the search for meaning. “Black Polished Chrome” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as a poet and a rock icon.