Sean Flynn
The Clash Lyrics


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You know he heard the drums of war
When the past was a closing door

The drums beat into the jungle floor

Past was always a closing door
Closing door
Rain on the leaves and the soldiers sing
You never-never hear anything

They filled the sky with a tropical storm





You know he heard the drums of war
But each man knows what he's looking for

Overall Meaning

The above lyrics are from The Clash's song Sean Flynn. The lyrics paint an evocative picture of the jungle during wartime. The opening line, "You know he heard the drums of war," suggests that the singer is very aware of the danger he is in. The line "When the past was a closing door" is also significant, as it suggests that the war is a way of closing the door on the past, leaving no room for reflection or regret. The line "Past was always a closing door" is a reminder that in war, there is no turning back.


The following lines describe the jungle environment, with its rain and thick vegetation. The soldiers' singing is almost drowned out by the sound of the rain; it's a poignant moment that emphasises the sense of isolation felt by those fighting in the jungle. The final lines of the verse, "You know he heard the drums of war/But each man knows what he's looking for," suggest that despite the danger, the soldiers each have their own reasons for being there.


Overall, The Clash's Sean Flynn is a haunting, evocative song that captures the sense of unease and danger of the Vietnam War. It's a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, and the way it can leave a lasting mark on those who have served.


Line by Line Meaning

You know he heard the drums of war
The beat of war drums was audible to him


When the past was a closing door
As his past was disappearing with time


The drums beat into the jungle floor
The rumble of the drums reached the depths of the forest


Past was always a closing door
The past is something that can never be changed


Closing door
The past fades away with time


Rain on the leaves and the soldiers sing
Amidst raining leaves, soldiers sung together


You never-never hear anything
You cannot hear anything amidst the chaos of war


They filled the sky with a tropical storm
The battlefield was full of tumultuous voices and sounds


But each man knows what he's looking for
Every soldier had his own reason for being there in the war




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, Topper Headon

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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