About the song
“Moonlight Drive” by The Doors is a song steeped in evocative imagery and poetic lyrics, emblematic of Jim Morrison’s songwriting style. It was one of the first songs written by Morrison and played a pivotal role in the formation of The Doors.
Background:
- Inspiration: The song was reportedly conceived by Morrison during his time in Venice Beach, Los Angeles, in the mid-1960s. It is said he was inspired by the ocean at night and the romantic allure of a moonlit drive.
- Formation of The Doors: Morrison shared the lyrics with Ray Manzarek, who was struck by their poetic nature and musical potential. This encounter led to the formation of The Doors, with “Moonlight Drive” becoming a cornerstone of their early repertoire.
- Release: The song was featured on their second album, “Strange Days,” released in 1967.
Themes:
- Romantic escapism: The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nocturnal journey, inviting the listener to escape the confines of the city and surrender to the allure of the moonlit ocean. It evokes a sense of freedom and adventure.
- Sensuality and desire: The song is laden with suggestive imagery, alluding to intimacy and passion. Lines like “Let’s swim out tonight, love / It’s our turn to try” and “Surrender to the waiting worlds / That lap against our side” create a sense of erotic anticipation.
- Surrender and transformation: The song suggests a willingness to let go of control and embrace the unknown. The moonlight drive becomes a metaphorical journey of self-discovery and transformation, as the characters “step into a river” and “fall through wet forests.”
- The power of nature: The moon, the ocean, and the night sky are central to the song’s imagery. They represent a primal force that can both liberate and overwhelm.
“Moonlight Drive” is a captivating blend of poetry, music, and evocative themes that capture the essence of The Doors’ early sound and Jim Morrison’s artistic vision. It remains a beloved classic and a testament to the enduring power of their music.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s swim to the moonLet’s climb through the tideYou reach your hand to hold meBut I can’t be your guyEven though I love youAs I watch you fly
Fall into an oceanOn our moonlight driveMoonlight drive
Let’s swim to the moonLet’s climb through the tideYou reach your hand to hold meBut I can’t be your guyWell even though I love youAs I watch you fly
Fall into an oceanOn our moonlight driveMoonlight drive
Come on, baby, gonna take a little rideGoing down to the oceansideWe’re gonna get real goneGet real highGoing down, down
Keep you high, keep you going, yeahGonna drown, drown