Introduction
Released in 1968, “Crown of Creation” is one of the most recognizable songs by Jefferson Airplane, an American rock band that achieved huge success during the peak of the counterculture movement. The lyrics sung by Grace Slick, one of the band’s lead vocalists, are abstract and poetic, and have left fans and critics wondering about their meaning for more than fifty years.
The Lyrics
The song has a haunting introduction with ethereal music, giving off a futuristic vibe. Slick then begins singing:
“In loyalty to their kind
They cannot tolerate our minds
In loyalty to our kind
We cannot tolerate their obstruction”
The repetition of “loyalty to their kind” and “loyalty to our kind” draws attention to the division that exists in society between those who conform and those who do not. The line “they cannot tolerate our minds” reveals that those who “conform” do not have the capacity to understand those who are different.
Slick then continues with:
“‘Cause we’re different, cold creators
We’re the guardians of your souls
With the power to make you whole”
Here, the idea of being different is intentionally emphasized by way of repetition. The band members, in their own way, believe themselves to be the “cold creators”, or the initiators of new ideas. By doing so, they see themselves as protectors of the soul, with the power to create something new and meaningful.
Finally, Slick finishes the song stating:
“You are the crown of creation
And you’ve got no place to go
Soon you’ll attain the stability you strive for
In the only way that it’s granted
In a place among the fossils of our time”
With this final verse, the chorus of the song is sung, “You are the crown of creation”. The idea is that, despite all the limitations, obstacles, and challenges, humans are superior beings in the scheme of things. However, this place of honor comes with its own challenges too. It creates a sense of homelessness and burden to maintain that superiority. The final line talks about achieving stability in a world where man is still trying to educate himself, change his environment and hold onto his place in history.
The Interpretation
Like many popular songs, the meaning behind “Crown of Creation” has been the subject of much interpretation and speculation. To some listeners, the lyrics seem to be about a conflict between the established order of society and those who challenge that order. Others suggest that the song is a commentary on the nature of creativity and the role that artists play in society.
However, there is another interpretation that speaks to the political ethos during that time. In the revolutionary fervor of the 1960s, it isn’t challenging to imagine that the so-called establishment viewed young people as drug-addled and potentially dangerous. And it is this perspective that Jefferson Airplane is criticizing in the song.
As the song puts it, those in power, a “big brother” entity that controls the lives of the “common people,” cannot accept those people with a different mindset or ideals. In this sense, it is the final verse where the song’s true light shines – the idea that the very people who see themselves as the “crown of creation” are doomed to become fossilized and irrelevant, as new ideas and ways of thinking emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the song “Crown of Creation” about?
There is no definite answer to what the song is about as many have interpreted differently over the years. But most agree the song is about the conflict between the established order of society and those who challenge that order, and how this power struggle will eventually lead to the demise of the status quo. Jefferson Airplane’s “Crown of Creation” critiques the hypocritical structures of power and their self-proclaimed guardians of human society, stating that they cannot tolerate the mind of creatives.
What influenced the song “Crown of Creation”?
“Crown of Creation” was written amid a time of extreme social and political upheaval during the 1960s and the American counterculture where people were questioning authority and traditional values. The song was also influenced by Eastern philosophical ideas and occultism that were gaining momentum at that period. Moreover, the Vietnam War and social injustice became frequent talking points, and this informed much of the band’s views on issues of concern.
Why did Grace Slick write “Crown of Creation”?
Grace Slick was the lead singer of the band and wrote the song in protest of the establishment and the rigidity of traditional gender roles. The song addresses the hypocrisy of politicians, the System at large, and conformity, using intricate metaphors that would later become synonymous with the band itself.
What is the meaning of “Crown of Creation”?
The title “Crown of Creation” refers to mankind’s place at the top of the evolutionary ladder, and according to Grace Slick, the acknowledgment of human superiority came with a burden to maintain that superiority. Slick believed that people with the power and ability to be innovative were responsible for creating, protecting, and nurturing the moral aspects of society.
What genre is “Crown of Creation”?
“Crown of Creation” is a rock song with psychedelic rock and folk-rock influences. It has a futuristic sound and unique instrumentation that was popular during the 1960s counterculture movement.
What other songs did Jefferson Airplane release?
Jefferson Airplane had several other popular songs, including “White Rabbit,” “Somebody to Love,” “Volunteers,” “Embryonic Journey,” and others. They were one of the top rock bands during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and their music had a significant influence on the counterculture movement.
What was unique about Jefferson Airplane’s sound?
Jefferson Airplane’s sound was unique, combining elements of folk, rock, psychedelic, and blues music. They were also one of the first bands to use a combination of male and female vocalists. Marty Balin, Paul Kantner, and Grace Slick alternated lead vocals, bringing varying styles and perspectives to the music.
Has “Crown of Creation” been covered or sampled by other artists?
Yes, the song has been covered by several artists, including Metallica, Megadeth, and Mudhoney. The original recording has also been sampled in several hip-hop songs, including “Arcade” by Jhene Aiko and “John” by Lil Wayne.
What awards did Jefferson Airplane receive?
Jefferson Airplane received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998.
Are the members of Jefferson Airplane still active in the music industry?
Some members of Jefferson Airplane are still active in the music industry, including Grace Slick, Jack Casady, and Jorma Kaukonen. However, the band officially disbanded in 1972, and many of its members have since passed away.
What is the significance of Jefferson Airplane in rock music history?
Jefferson Airplane is significant in rock music history as one of the first bands to integrate psychedelic rock with sociopolitical messages. Their unique sound and lyrics helped pave the way for other psychedelic rock bands, and their massive popularity during the peak of the counterculture movement cemented their status as icons of the era.
Are there any documentaries or biopics about Jefferson Airplane?
Yes, there are several documentaries and biopics about Jefferson Airplane, including “Fly Jefferson Airplane”, a documentary released in 2004, and “The American Experience: Summer of Love”, a television movie released in 2007. Each provides insight into the band’s history, music, and legacy.
Conclusion
Jefferson Airplane’s “Crown of Creation” is a thought-provoking piece that speaks to creativity, individuality, and the need for change. The song has stood the test of time, and its message remains relevant today, encouraging people to strive for individuality and creative expression while challenging the established order. Although the interpretation may vary from one listener to another, one thing remains – the song is a classic in rock music history.
