The Beatles and Surrealism

The Beatles, discovered by Brian Epstein in 1961, rapidly ascended to global fame, becoming trendsetters in music and popular culture. The Beatles were the first to print their lyrics, create albums with central themes, put out albums without their name on the cover, and popularize surrealism in music. Influenced by Bob Dylan, they introduced surrealism to their music in 1965 with "Nowhere Man," blending it into what became known as "psychedelic rock".



What is Surrealism?


Surrealism, originating in the 1880s, focuses on dreamlike imagery and unusual combinations. Coined by Guillaume Apollinaire in 1917, the movement gained traction with Andre Breton's 1924 manifesto. Surrealism revolts against rational control, aiming for the "true functioning of thought" by accessing the subconscious mind, free from moral or critical constraints.


The Beatles' Surrealist Influences


John Lennon's admiration for Lewis Carroll's surreal novels, Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking-Glass, significantly influenced the Beatles' work. Carroll's impact is evident in songs like "I Am the Walrus" and "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds".


"I Am the Walrus": The title and nonsensical elements pay homage to Carroll's works. The line "I am the eggman" and the use of nonsense words like "goo goo goo joob" mirror Carroll's style. The song incorporates a police siren-inspired beat, clashing sounds, and chaotic vocals and sound effects.


"Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds": This song evokes dreamlike imagery, reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. Paul McCartney described it as an Alice in Wonderland-inspired concept. The train imagery echoes the confusing train in Alice Through the Looking-Glass.


Surrealism as Protest


Like early surrealists, the Beatles used their music to critique society and government, evident in "Taxman" (1966) and "Good Morning Good Morning" (1967). "Taxman" protested the British government's high taxation rates. "Good Morning Good Morning" targeted empty small talk.


Key Surrealist Songs


"Nowhere Man": Arguably the first Beatles song to embrace surrealism.


Revolver (1966): This album featured several surrealistic tracks, including: 


"She Said She Said": Describing an LSD trip experienced by John Lennon, set to psychedelic music.


"I'm Only Sleeping": Achieved a surreal feel using reversed guitar music.


"Tomorrow Never Knows": Based on The Book of the Dead, this song features distorted vocals and experimental sound effects.


"Strawberry Fields Forever": Reflected John Lennon's experiences with LSD, featuring contradictory lyrics and mixed-version recordings. The song combines classical cello music with a nightmarish horn section and backward tapes.


Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967): This album cemented surrealism into their music. It covered diverse styles and included "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" and "A Day in the Life".


The Impact


The Beatles' innovative approach influenced numerous groups and expanded the possibilities for music. Their songs grew in length and complexity, addressing diverse subjects and incorporating a wide array of instruments.

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