The Beatles and Philosophy

Mr. Lundy appears to know very little about the Beatles, and perhaps nothing about Eastern Philosophy, or its influence on the Beatles and their music. He is half right, however, about the song “I Am A Walrus”. After the opening line, it really is childish rhymes, which may even constitute “gibberish”. But, it is the kind of gibberish that a familiarity with Lewis Carroll may inspire. Indeed, John Lennon made it clear that the Walrus was in fact inspired by the character depicted in a poem found in Alice’s adventures in “Through The Looking Glass”. And, I can assure Mr. Lundy with equal confidence that the opening line of this song is not a “fluke connection” to Eastern Philosophy, but is inspired by the study of Eastern Thought (even if this study was only indirect, and through the writings of Aldous Huxley and Timothy Leary). But then again, it seems almost absurd for Mr. Lundy to focus on an essay’s minor observation. It betrays more of an interest in appearing clever than in demonstrating a comprehension of the Beatles and their music.

Comment by Ron Zigler from Penn State Abington — April 28, 2007 @ 10:14 pm