Brando
Scott Walker Lyrics
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Dwellers on the bluff
Across The Wide Missouri
Never enough
No
Never enough
Whip-poor-will
Whip-poor-will
A beating would do me a world of good
Sneakin' by
Sneakin' by
I am down on my knees
A beating would do me a world of good
I took it from Saxon
I took it from Dad
I took it from Fat Johnny Friendly
From 3 vigilantes
I took if for Wild One
And the for my sin
I took it from Lizabeth again and again
Ah, The Wide Missouri
Dwellers on the bluff
Across The Wide Missouri
Never enough
No
Never enough
Whip-poor-will
Whip-poor-will
Scissoring high in the trees
A beating would do me a world of good
Sneakin' by
Sneakin' by
I am down on my knees
A beating would do me
A beating would do me
The song "Brando" by Scott Walker is a melancholic and introspective reflection on the life of Marlon Brando, the iconic movie star known for his moody demeanor and deep emotional range. The opening lines introduce us to the Missouri River and the people who live along its banks, setting a scene that evokes both the ruggedness of the American West and the sense of loneliness that often accompanies it. This sense of longing is further emphasized by the repeated refrain of "never enough," which suggests a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the world.
The references to a whip-poor-will, a bird known for its mournful call, and to being "down on my knees" create a sense of vulnerability and sadness, as if the singer is pleading for help or comfort. This feeling is further reinforced by the lines that reference taking beatings from various people, as if the singer is seeking punishment or atonement for their sins. The repeated reference to Elizabeth, perhaps a nod to Brando's on-screen love interest in the film "A Streetcar Named Desire," adds a further layer of complexity and depth to the song.
Overall, "Brando" is a haunting and evocative tribute to a Hollywood legend, as well as a meditation on the darker aspects of human nature and the quest for redemption.
Line by Line Meaning
Ah, The Wide Missouri
The Missouri River is a symbol of the vast frontier, as well as the endless possibilities and opportunities for adventure.
Dwellers on the bluff
Those who live on the bluffs overlooking the river are blessed with a wide view and a sense of perspective on the world.
Across The Wide Missouri
The idea of crossing the river represents taking risks and venturing into uncharted territory.
Never enough
There is always something more to be sought or achieved, and never a true sense of satisfaction.
No
A simple denial, indicating that what is desired will not be obtained.
Whip-poor-will
A bird call that signifies the coming of night, and the darker aspects of human nature.
Scissoring high in the trees
The motion of the bird's wings suggests a cutting, scissoring motion, which could be interpreted as a threat or warning.
A beating would do me a world of good
A desire for punishment or discipline, either to atone for one's sins or as a form of self-flagellation.
Sneakin' by
Moving stealthily and secretly, perhaps trying to avoid detection or consequences.
I am down on my knees
A position of submission or supplication, indicating a desire for forgiveness or mercy.
I took it from Saxon
Taking something from someone more powerful or dominant, possibly as an act of defiance or rebellion.
I took it from Dad
Rebellion against parental authority, as well as the desire to carve out one's own identity and destiny.
I took it from Fat Johnny Friendly
Taking something from a criminal or gangster figure, who represents a dark corner of society that can be seductive or alluring.
From 3 vigilantes
The idea of taking something from those who believe themselves to be vigilantes, or those who take the law into their own hands.
I took if for Wild One
Taking something as a homage to Marlon Brando's iconic role in the film 'The Wild One,' which represents rebellion, freedom, and a sense of dangerous coolness.
And the for my sin
The sense of guilt or wrongdoing that drives the desire for punishment or atonement.
I took it from Lizabeth again and again
Receiving something from a woman named Lizabeth, who may have a significant or symbolic role in the singer's life.
Contributed by Katherine H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.