Knott's music has not been without controversy in Christian circles, particularly due to profanity in the song "Rocket and a Bomb" (from the self-titled release of his former band Aunt Bettys) and original artwork in that album of Jesus Christ as a bartender.
Knott explained some of his views in an interview with HM Magazine, saying "Basically, I'm a human being and I believe in Christ, period. It doesn't make my life rosy, it doesn't make my life terrible, it doesn't do anything with that. I know Christ."
Michael Knott is also the founder of the now defunct independent record label, Blonde Vinyl Records.
http://www.michaelknott.com/
Hang Me High
Michael Knott Lyrics
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There's a story I could tell if you would let me
But if the land you're comin' from won't let you listen
Take your pen in hand and cut me from this narration
High, hang me high
It's a story of a lad with a tambourine
His mother warned him of the perils in the underworld
How he tried to fare, I doubt that you would even care
High, hang me high
Please forgive me if I haven't offered a glass or two
Understand this man's been shaking tambourines for you
There's so much for us to find out in the open sea
But if you prefer the coast then find me a swingin' post
The lyrics of Michael Knott's song "Hang Me High" describe a captivating story that the singer is willing to share with the listener. The first verse sets the scene by offering the possibility of adventure and discovery which the listener can experience "outside the far reef." However, the singer is aware that his story can only be heard by those who are willing to listen. If the listener is not receptive to the singer's story, then they should cut him from their life's narration.
The chorus, "High, hang me high," introduces a sense of foreboding and desperation to the story. The second verse tells the story of a young man who ventured into the sea with a tambourine. His mother warned him about the dangers that lie in the underworld, but he ventured forth, disregarding her warning. The singer doubts the listener would care about the lad's fate. Lastly, the singer apologizes for not offering a drink or two to the listener, explaining that he has been shaking tambourines for them all along.
The song's mysterious lyrics laced with symbolism, metaphors, and vivid imagery evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue in the listener. The song's slow, hypnotic rhythm matched with the harmonious melody further accentuates the depth of the lyrics. It is a song that leaves the listener pondering about what the story could mean.
Line by Line Meaning
There's an ocean, we can sail outside the far reef
Let's explore the vast ocean beyond the limits of the reef.
There's a story I could tell if you would let me
I have a tale to share, but only if you're willing to listen.
But if the land you're comin' from won't let you listen
If your past experiences make it hard for you to open up, it's okay.
Take your pen in hand and cut me from this narration
If I don't fit into your story, feel free to leave me out of it.
High, hang me high
My fate is to be judged, so if you must, hang me high.
It's a story of a lad with a tambourine
This is a tale about a boy and his musical instrument.
He did shake it when the vessel came to higher seas
Despite the dangers of the high seas, he didn't stop shaking his tambourine.
His mother warned him of the perils in the underworld
His mother knew about the dangers of the sea and tried to protect him.
How he tried to fare, I doubt that you would even care
Others might not understand the struggles he faced on the open sea.
Please forgive me if I haven't offered a glass or two
I apologize if I haven't provided enough hospitality or comfort.
Understand this man's been shaking tambourines for you
I've been doing everything I can to entertain and please you.
There's so much for us to find out in the open sea
There's a whole world waiting for us to explore beyond the shore.
But if you prefer the coast then find me a swingin' post
If you're not interested in the open sea, find something else to do.
Contributed by Alex P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.