☝️ Key Points
- Donovan describes Atlantis as a highly advanced and magnificent civilization that existed before the great flood and from which many legends originate.
- Atlantis is considered as the cultural and civilizational origin of many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians.
- He speaks of the sending of twelve representatives of Atlantis, including poets, doctors, and scientists, to all corners of the Earth, aware of their impending fate.
- Donovan expresses his deep longing to be in Atlantis beneath the ocean and describes Atlantis as his 'pre-diluvian lover'.
- 'Atlantis' is a tribute to the lost city and a reminder to not forget the past and to honor the knowledge it contained.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song 'Atlantis' by
Donovan describe the legendary sunken city of Atlantis. Donovan paints a picture of this magnificent civilization that existed before the great flood and is located in the present-day Atlantic Ocean region.
He tells that from here, the 'beautiful sailors' effortlessly traveled to North and South America in their painted sailboats. To the east, Africa was their neighbor, just a short sea mile away. The great Egyptian era is portrayed as a remnant of Atlantean culture.
Donovan claims that the mythical gods who appear in the legends of all countries come from Atlantis. This statement emphasizes the universal allure and influence that Atlantis is said to have had.
He also describes how Atlantis, aware of its fate, sent ships to all corners of the world. On board were the Twelve: the poet, the doctor, the farmer, the scientist, the magician, and the other so-called gods of our legends.
In the last part of the song, Donovan expresses his longing to be beneath the ocean at Atlantis. He repeats the words 'Way down below the ocean where I wanna be she may be' several times, underscoring his deep connection and yearning for this mystical place. He also refers to Atlantis as his 'antediluvian lover', representing his deep love and affection for this place.
Overall, 'Atlantis' is a homage to the mythical city and a reflection on the loss of a great and influential civilization. It is also a call to not forget the past and to honor the wisdom and knowledge it contained.