The Meaning Behind The Song: Alligator by The Grateful Dead

As a music journalist, I have had the privilege of exploring and uncovering the deeper meanings behind some of the most iconic songs ever recorded. One such song that has always resonated with me is “Alligator” by The Grateful Dead. I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house, and from the moment I heard it, I was captivated by its hypnotic rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics.

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A Tale of Friendship and Reflection

“Alligator” tells a tale of friendship and reflection, presented through the symbolic imagery of an alligator. The song, written by Robert Hunter, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, and Phil Lesh, explores the themes of nostalgia, memory, and the passage of time.

The opening verse sets the stage with the imagery of a sleepy alligator lying by the river. As the alligator calls for his whiskey, his tea, and his companionship, the narrator acknowledges that he has been there before. He reflects on the past and expresses a desire to move on, no longer willing to be entangled in a cycle that has brought him no fulfillment.

The chorus serves as a proclamation of independence from the past. The narrator declares that he will not return to the places and experiences that no longer serve him. He waits for a windy day, a metaphorical representation of change and a new beginning.

In the second verse, the alligator takes on a new dimension. Now described as “creepy,” it represents memories and moments that linger and refuse to fade away. The narrator vows to confront his memories, hoping to find closure and clarity.

The second chorus carries a sense of finality. The narrator reiterates his decision not to return to the past, firmly stating that he will move forward, leaving behind the ghosts of his previous experiences.

Symbolism and Social Commentary

“Alligator” also features a bridge that incorporates social commentary into the song. The lyrics mention burning down the Fillmore and gassing the Avalon, two famous music venues from the 1960s. These references can be interpreted as a critique of the music establishment at the time, calling for an alternative approach to creativity and expression.

The third verse takes a more surreal turn, with vivid imagery of riding down a river in an old canoe, accompanied by bugs and an old tennis shoe. The alligator reappears, described as the biggest one ever seen, with teeth big and pointy and eyes bugging out. Here, the alligator becomes a symbol of danger, representing the threats and challenges that the narrator has encountered throughout his journey.

The verse continues with references to union contracts and picket lines, hinting at a larger commentary on societal structures and the fight for justice. The alligator’s actions of screaming, yelling, and picking its chops suggest an aggressive, predatory nature that the narrator has observed firsthand. The mention of prison and bail adds another layer of complexity, perhaps suggesting a personal struggle for freedom and redemption.

An Outro of Empowerment and Liberation

The song concludes with an outro that encourages listeners to get up and dance. The repetition of the phrase “Alligator running round my door” reinforces the persistence of challenges and obstacles in life. The mention of the alligator’s creepy friend crawling on the cabin floor implies that the narrator has not fully escaped his past, but he remains determined not to let it bother him anymore.

Through its poetic lyrics and evocative imagery, “Alligator” by The Grateful Dead takes listeners on a journey of reflection, empowerment, and liberation. It reminds us to confront our past, make peace with it, and move forward with renewed strength and purpose.

Album title: Dick’s Picks Vol. 4 (1996)

Credits:

Produced By Dave Hassinger & The Grateful Dead

Written By Robert Hunter, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan & Phil Lesh

Lead Vocals Ron “Pigpen” McKernan

Arranger The Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Bob Weir, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, Bill Kreutzmann, Mickey Hart & Tom Constanten

Bass Guitar Phil Lesh

Drums Bill Kreutzmann & Mickey Hart

Lead Guitar Jerry Garcia

Organ Ron “Pigpen” McKernan

Piano Tom Constanten

Rhythm Guitar Bob Weir

Engineer Dan Healy

Assistant Engineer Bob Matthews

Label Warner Bros.-Seven Arts

Release Date July 18, 1968

Alligator Live Performances: Alligator (Live at Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, August 1968) by The Grateful Dead & Alligator (Live at Fillmore East NYC April 1971) by The Grateful Dead

Tags: Rock, Pop, Blues Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Psychedelic