Although I truly and deeply understand that lyrics should (for the most part) be left up to the interpretation of the listener; I really have to know what the 'true events' are that Frank references to in The Swimmer (Dog in the Sand). The song makes me uncomfortably melancholic, has me strumming and wailing along to the distress of my wife and son (you should see the looks in their eyes...) and I have no clue why (expect for the song being great).
Anybody have any idea what this song is really about?
I like that folk singer theory and too did some research on it (which just means I googled it...) and found that folksinger Gamble Rogers died in '91 while trying to rescue a drowning woman off Flagler Beach, Florida. There is a state park named after him now. Probably Frank went for a swim there once...
The Elian-thread doesn't seem likely; Elian didn't swim but floated, he basically went the wrong way (..Florida far behind..) and I think that subject would not be obscure enough for Monsieur Black.
Besides, the Gamble theory is way cooler...
Maybe this should be put in the Discopedia?
Edited by - MarchandDjibouti on 12/17/2006 11:24:33
Well, there's this "You were so incredible / finding all the edible / prize of the sea" that makes me think that it is more of a survival tale than a rescue one. But I don't see any connection to the Elian story at all.
"Now you're officially my woman. Kudos. I can't say I don't envy you."
When I hear the "Are you going down where the ballyhoos and tritons are" line it makes me think it is referring to a heroic death and he is taking his rightful place along with the other (mythical) ocean creatures. But that's one of the many reasons we love FB, his songs allow us to interpret them in ways that are meaningful to us. Not many have that ability.
The Swimmer and Things I gotta know
Posted - 12/14/2006 : 06:06:46
"Now you're officially my woman. Kudos. I can't say I don't envy you."