The Meaning Behind The Song: Wilson by Phish
When it comes to Phish, almost every song they’ve written has some level of depth and meaning behind it. One of their more popular songs, “Wilson,” is no exception. This song is a staple in the band’s live performances, and it’s easy to see why. “Wilson” tells a story that is both thought-provoking and visually stimulating. Here’s a breakdown of the song and what it means.
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The Story Behind The Song
“Wilson” was written by Phish’s guitarist and singer, Trey Anastasio, and has been a staple in their live performances since it was first played in 1985. The song tells the story of a man named Wilson, who is trapped in a world that he can’t control. Wilson is a tyrant who rules over his people with an iron fist, but on the inside, he is struggling to keep his grip on reality.
Anastasio has said that the story of Wilson is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a metaphor for the human experience. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Anastasio said, “I think Wilson is a metaphor for our own internal tyrants. You can’t escape him because he’s inside your own head. You have to face the fact that there’s a little bit of Wilson in yourself.”
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Wilson” are particularly interesting, as they paint a vivid picture of the world that Wilson inhabits. Here are some of the more notable lyrics:
“Wilson, king of Prussia, 1781
Couldn’t get the job done
Wilson, duke of Lizards, noble prize for slime
Green flies the banner, drops the bait
Pulls the nail, out goes the stake”
The first line of the song references Prussia, a former kingdom that was formed in the 1700s. This line gives the song a historical context, which is then juxtaposed with the fantastical world of the song’s protagonist.
The second line is equally as interesting, as it describes Wilson as the “duke of Lizards” and the recipient of a “noble prize for slime.” This particular line has been interpreted in a number of ways, but most assume that it has something to do with the idea that Wilson is a slimy character who is not to be trusted.
Finally, the last two lines of the verse describe Wilson pulling out a nail and being freed from his stake. This has been interpreted as Wilson breaking free from the chains that bind him and becoming a free man.
The Music
“Wilson” features some of Phish’s signature sound, including complex guitar riffs and intricate drumming. The song is also known for its catchy chorus, which is repeated throughout the song.
Anastasio has said that the music for “Wilson” was inspired by a dream he had about a carnival. The dream featured a carnival barker who was repeating the name “Wilson” over and over again. When Anastasio woke up, he knew that he had to turn that dream into a song.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of the name “Wilson” in the song?
The name “Wilson” has been interpreted in a number of different ways. Some believe that it is a reference to the former president of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, while others believe that it is simply a name that Anastasio liked the sound of. However, Anastasio has said that the name is meant to represent our own internal tyrants, or the little voice in our heads that tells us what to do.
What is the significance of the historical references in the lyrics?
The historical references in the lyrics of “Wilson” give the song some context and provide an interesting juxtaposition with the fantastical world of the song’s protagonist. They also serve as a reminder that even though the song is about a fictional character, it is grounded in reality.
What inspired the music for “Wilson”?
According to Anastasio, the music for “Wilson” was inspired by a dream he had about a carnival. The dream featured a carnival barker who was repeating the name “Wilson” over and over again. When Anastasio woke up, he knew that he had to turn that dream into a song.
Why is “Wilson” such a popular song at Phish concerts?
“Wilson” is a popular song at Phish concerts because it features some of their signature sound, including complex guitar riffs and intricate drumming. The catchy chorus is also a favorite among fans, who often sing it along with the band.
What is the meaning behind the chorus of “Wilson”?
The chorus of “Wilson” is repeated throughout the song and goes, “Wilson, king of Prussia, 1781 / Couldn’t get the job done.” The meaning behind the chorus is open to interpretation, but some believe that it represents the idea that even the most powerful people can fail.
Is “Wilson” based on a real person?
No, “Wilson” is not based on a real person. It is a fictional character created by Trey Anastasio.
Do Phish fans have any inside jokes related to “Wilson”?
Yes, Phish fans have a number of inside jokes related to “Wilson.” For example, when the band plays the song live, fans often hold up signs that say “Wilson” or “Gamehendge,” which is the fictional land that Wilson inhabits.
What is the significance of the line “Wilson, duke of Lizards, noble prize for slime”?
The line “Wilson, duke of Lizards, noble prize for slime” has been interpreted in a number of different ways. Some believe that it represents the idea that Wilson is a slimy character who is not to be trusted, while others believe that it is simply a nod to the absurdity of the song’s lyrics.
What is the meaning behind the line “Green flies the banner, drops the bait”?
The line “Green flies the banner, drops the bait” is another line that is open to interpretation. Some believe that it represents the idea that Wilson is a master at luring people in, while others believe that it is simply a nod to the fantastical world of the song.
What is the message behind “Wilson”?
The message behind “Wilson” is that we all have our own internal tyrants to contend with. The song is a metaphor for the human experience and encourages us to face the fact that there is a little bit of Wilson in ourselves.
What is the history of “Wilson”?
“Wilson” was first played by Phish in 1985 and has since become a staple in their live performances. The song has been played over 400 times and is often used as a set opener or closer.
What are some other notable Phish songs?
Phish is known for a number of notable songs, including “Chalk Dust Torture,” “Harry Hood,” “The Divided Sky,” “You Enjoy Myself,” and “Farmhouse.”
