Tuesday, May 21, 2024

What Is the Beatles' "Helter Skelter" About?

"Helter Skelter" is a song by The Beatles, written primarily by Paul McCartney, and it's known for its intense and raucous sound. The song's meaning has been the subject of much speculation and interpretation over the years.

Paul McCartney has stated that he was inspired to write "Helter Skelter" after reading a review of The Who's song "I Can See for Miles," which described it as the "loudest, rawest, dirtiest" song ever recorded. McCartney wanted to write a song that would outdo The Who's in terms of raw energy and intensity.

The term "helter skelter" originally refers to a British amusement park ride, a spiraling slide. McCartney later learned that the phrase was also used to describe chaos and disorder, which further influenced the song's lyrics.

While "Helter Skelter" may have started as a simple exercise in rock and roll intensity, its lyrics have been interpreted in various ways. Some listeners see it as a commentary on the chaos and upheaval of the late 1960s, a time marked by social and political unrest. Charles Manson infamously interpreted "Helter Skelter" as a call to incite a race war.

"Helter Skelter" remains one of The Beatles' most powerful and enigmatic songs, with its meaning open to interpretation and debate. It's a testament to the band's versatility and willingness to push musical boundaries, even if the exact meaning of the song may never be fully understood.



No comments: