Harmonic structure: a set of horizontal vocal lines… Read Full Bio ↴Composer's Notes
Harmonic structure: a set of horizontal vocal lines is improvised in at least three ranges. The vertical effect of which is atonal tone clusters and arrhythmic counterpoint.
Performance: the written melody is to be sung, after which the lines of lyric are to be re-ordered at will and sung to improvised melody, taking advantage of the opportunity for quartertones, fluid note lengths, and flexible tempo.
Starsailor
Tim Buckley Lyrics
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And though I memorized the slope of water,
Oblivion carries me on his shoulder:
Beyond the suns I speak and circuits shiver,
But though I shout the wisdom of the maps,
I am a salmon in the ring shape river.
Composer's Notes. Harmonic structure: a set of horizontal vocal lines
of which is atonal tone clusters and arhythmic counterpoint.
Performance: the written melody is to be sung, after which
the lines of lyric are to be reordered at will and sung
to improvised melody, taking advantage of the opportunity
for quartertones, third note lengths, and flexible tempo.
The lyrics of Tim Buckley's song "Starsailor" are a beautiful and poetic representation of the struggle between individuality and conformity. The first two lines suggest that the singer is an outsider, much like a bee in the fields during winter. However, despite their unique perspective and the knowledge they have gained through experience ("though I memorized the slope of water"), they are still subject to the whims of fate ("Oblivion carries me on his shoulder"). The final lines of the verse reinforce this idea, as the singer acknowledges that despite their attempt to communicate their wisdom to the world ("though I shout the wisdom of the maps"), they are still trapped within the constraints of their existence, much like a salmon in a circular river.
There is a sense of longing and sadness throughout the song, as the singer struggles to find their place in the world. The use of atonal tone clusters and arhythmic counterpoint in the harmonic structure reinforces this sense of disorientation and confusion, as though the music is reflecting the turmoil within the singer's mind. Overall, the lyrics of "Starsailor" are a powerful reminder that while we may strive for individuality and understanding, we are ultimately subject to the forces that govern our lives.
Line by Line Meaning
I am a bee out in the fields of winter
I feel lost and alone in the midst of a barren and desolate environment.
And though I memorized the slope of water,
Despite my attempts to understand the flow of life around me, I'm unable to communicate it effectively.
Oblivion carries me on his shoulder:
I'm consumed by a sense of insignificance and meaninglessness.
Beyond the suns I speak and circuits shiver,
I sense a greater truth beyond our material world, and my insights cause vibrations among humanity.
But though I shout the wisdom of the maps,
Despite my efforts to share my understanding, my words often go unheard or unheeded.
I am a salmon in the ring shape river.
Like a salmon swimming upstream, I struggle to maintain my course and identity in the face of life's relentless current.
Contributed by John H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@garyweglarz
I was a kid in the early 70's and this blew me away, but no one seemed to "get it." It's pretty cool to see how many younger people today do "get" and appreciate Tim's courage and creativity.
@plethoraofaliens
I'm 25 and have been obsessed with Tim Buckley since I was 17. I've been showing him to anyone my age who gets it 😉
@qwertvoltaire1190
I get it, I’ve been a professional musician since the early 60’s in all genres and i respect musical expression
@TSUKNIDA
Thanks,your Words are a very well description........
@jakezebloke
Gives me twin peaks the return vibes, amazing track, amazing album
@alexmortland
Tim Buckley was fucking crazy.
@robjones2408
After fifty-one years, "Starsailor" is finally getting an official release again. Reviled in 1970, revered in 2022 Somewhere Beyond, Tim is
nodding in quiet appreciation and saying: "I knew I was right." He still remains in a field of one five decades later.
@jalencooper3671
Play this in the club
@MrJonbil37
stunning! no melody, no rythm, just spectral energy floating. Music made in the space void by an alien.
@Marco_Venieri
Oblivion carries me on his shoulder...Masterpiece of terrific psychedelic